Days with the Dorans

  I can't believe Z is 15. The time is really flying! It was so nice that we could get together for a little birthday celebration! Nana and Papa were able to make it which was nice. Of course Papa had to mark the height. Z got some shirts, hoodies and a microscope! He was a happy kid- about all of it. You know you're getting older when you get excited for clothes! I love that he and his best buddy were born one day apart (albeit many years too). We love you so much, Z! Happy Happy Birthday!!

 How is it my baby is 15!?!?! Time has gone by so fast and I just love who Ali is and who she is becoming. She seems to be more confident and secure and I am just in awe of her! She woke up fairly early (maybe because she knew there'd be presents ready for her). She opened up two things and then waited for the rest of the things until later. Unfortunately, we found out that Maddy was sick. I know she was bummed and so were we. Ali had chosen to see the movie Frozen 2, mostly I think because it would have been Maddy's choice (which was super sweet). With Maddy and Steph not able to come, we called up Al's old dance sister, Amber, who was able to join us on SUPER short notice! Crazy was that she had a Carmen San Diego shirt she had gotten for her back when she did that number. It was great to have the girls together again like old times. I miss Julia! We need to get together soon! After the movie (which half of us REALLY liked and half didn't~ Al and I w...

It was pretty last minute... well- because that's the story of my life but Joe did invite some of his friends over to the lake to hang out for his birthday. JoJo and Nan also came over and we sipped wine and caught up on the deck while the kids hung out by the lake. We didn't want to be in their business but also could keep an eye on them from where we were! They seemed to have a great time in the lake- They hung on the raft, headed out to the sandbar and had pizza, snacks and drinks. We did get them up to have some cake and sing. Joe had a blast and between you and me seems to have a bit of a crush on the girl in the pink (Ella) which has been super cute to watch! (Sorry Joey... who knows when/if you'll ever read this anyway). Happy birthday, my love!

I am in a bit of denial that I have a 15 year old! I am so blown away by this kid and so proud of him on so many levels! His birthday was a busy one (I feel like all of our days are busy this time of year). When he woke up we gave him his presents... AN ACOUSTIC GUITAR!! He seemed pretty happy but didn't get too much time to play it because soon after we were off to a big XC meet, then soccer and then at night he had a marching band showcase! Happy Birthday, Joey! You are so loved! This celebration is only the beginning!