Emily's 13th Birthday Extravaganza!

It's hard to believe it, but my big girl is now 13 years old!! She has been celebrating all week with multiple parties and gatherings with friends and family. 

First up was a sleepover with neighbourhood friends that also included our first Escape Room experience. 

Jessi wanted to make a Ludy stuffy for her big sis ♥

Improbable Escapes - Legends of the Mayan Temple

We escaped! With 5 minutes to spare...

The next two parties were with Steve's side of the family and Emily's bff Kassie. I only took one picture over those two days -- just enjoyed the company and let the girls do their thing.

On Sunday, Emily's actual birthday, we hosted lunch for my side of the family and Emily was spoiled with all the things she loves most (including, but not limited to: Nutella, practical gifts, Survivor, Drawful, noodles, playing with friends, and Grand-Maman's chocolate cake). What a lucky girl!

What the birthday girl was doing the minute she turned 13, at 8:32am:

Birth minute -- it's official!

Ok, this one's not so practical...

At the age of 13, Emily has surpassed her mother in height. Keep growing, big girl!

The final event was today: a beach day at Sandbanks with a few friends. But I'll save that for another post -- I'm all tired out!

It has been a total pleasure watching Emily grow these past 13 years. She is such a kind, compassionate, and responsible girl! Looking forward to seeing where life takes her.

Happy 13th Birthday, Emily!

Love ya ♥

Cat Boy!

This summer there's been an outdoor cat in our neighbourhood that loves to come visit! His name is Cat Boy and we are happy to entertain him with pats, rubs, and scratches. It's been a treat for the kids and Steve to interact with a cat without all the extra work of having it as a pet. 

I've never been too fond of cats so I tend to keep my distance, but he is so friendly that even I'll offer up my hand or leg as a scratching post on occasion.

Sometimes Cat Boy wishes he could come inside...

 See you again soon, Cat Boy!

Cambridge Photo Dump

We just got back from our annual trip to Cambridge/Kitchener/Waterloo to visit Steve's mom and old friends. So many pictures! So much fun!

Not pictured here were the lovely hikes around Cambridge, delicious meals, and many hangouts on the deck in perfect weather. Now we are home sweet home, ready to tackle the last three weeks of summer break!