Birthday Girl

In spite of my protests, my little girl turned 5 last week and it has been quite the ongoing celebration. We started with a Hello Kitty birthday party at our house the Saturday before the big day which was big fun for Alena, what with all the kids around. Then she and I headed out to Java Jive for some Jet-Tea smoothie action! After that, it was pool time. She is swimming like a fish now with the sole help of a couple semi-deflated water wings. Then we took a quick trip to Chicago with Mom and P, complete with stop at the American Girl Store.

Aside from the birthday, Alena has been enjoying a great summer so far. Golfing, more swimming, getting ready for Kindergarten , and waiting (im)patiently for her baby brother to arrive. Since I am in my *FINAL** semester of my doctorate program I, too, am able to fully enjoy the summertime bliss again! Ready to get that baby home and have a crazy-busy, fun-filled maternity leave!

These are a few shots from the bday:


Awaiting her smoothie


Enjoying that smoothie before getting out the door


Chilling in downtown Hanni