Madison's birthday

After a lot of discussions, back and forths, and some indecisions, Maddie decided to not have a birthday party this year, despite it being her "party" year.  There were a few complex factors that led to this decision.  One big problem was that she knew exactly what she wanted to do for her party - but lacked the people to do it with.  She wanted to have a sports competition party - but she knew none of her friends would have fun.  I encouraged her to do it anyway or invite only people who would have fun or to do a different party.  She decided to celebrate at home... with her best friends... US!!!  

She chose Oreo Balls for her cake and got some great presents, including a new swim suit from grandma, a digital camera from us, and a cereal cup from aunt Ashley. 

 Some things about Madison right now.

• She goes by Maddie at school.
• She has found happiness at school by deciding to ditch the girl drama and play football with the boys at recess.  These boys have become her good friends and she discovered for herself that she is happier when she is hanging out with them than with the girls.  I am so proud of her for recognizing that.  This feeds into a few other problems (like being embarrassed to invite 5 boys to her birthday party).  
• She is "friends" with a lot of people.  Despite the fact that she prefers to hang out with the boys, she has a lot of girls friends and is in a lot of different "groups".  She is currently playing soccer with about 6 girls from her grade and loves it.  And at PTC her teacher told me she can't get her to stop talking to everyone.  So I think she is going just fine!
• If you can't find Madison she is likely outside riding a scooter, bike, or roller blading.  She loves to be outside and being active.
• She has a talent for bringing people together.  She is the best one in our family at getting everyone to do something together.  If everyone is playing a board or card game, or outside playing wallball, it is because Madison organized that.  
• Another place you can find her is reading.  She had a goal to out-read Megan in Battle of  the Books and she did it!  Way to go Mads!
• The babies love Madison and she loves the babies.  I am glad she is the one closest to them in age, they have a special bond.
• Maddie and Jason have created a special bond over the last year.  I am not sure how or why it happened, but I dare say they are the closest in the family.  
• And just so you think she isn't perfect (which she practically is) - if it is past 5:30 you can find her sitting at the dinner table with the babies HOURS after dinner refusing to eat the meal.  She is by far my pickiest eater and has expanded her dinner pallet from exclusively mac and cheese to grilled pork tenderloin and sesame chicken.    So there is some hope.