sweet 6 year old

As of this past month, we have a 6 year old in the house. 

(picture by Ellie)

My baby is 6. WOW. 

I love her so, and love watching her grow. 

We decided to have a low-keyed party this year, since last year was a bigger affair. 

The plan was to take Whit out on her very own "Mommy and Daddy" date. 

Last minute, though, I decided to invite two of her dearest friends over...

for an afternoon play-date and little tea party. 

Ellie and I had great fun pulling out Mama Hatcher's tea cups for a simple garden party.

I had picked up a few items at Trader Joes....

and we added home-made lemon bars and cucumber sandwiches. 

These two gals are sisters.... and they made Whit birthday cards. 

So sweet seeing them interact with each other. 

AND.... so very simple. Love. 

(photos of me and whit by Ellie....)

Whit kept on her new dress for almost the whole day. 

When daddy got home, we headed out back for a few shots....

then headed to the mall. Whit picked out Jasmin from the Disney store as her gift. 

We went to her choice of restaurant, Red Robin..... a family favorite! 

And we looked like a perfect little family of 3. I kind of felt a bit sneaky. Ha. 

It was so much fun to have this alone time with her, and I'm thinking

it might have to become a new family tradition!

Happy Birthday sweet, sweet girl.
Thank you for the occasion to celebrate your life!

Dearest Heavenly Father,
Would you pour your blessings upon sweet Whitney? May she never know a day
that is apart from Your faithful, loving hand. Would you grant me wisdom
as I seek to tie strings with her heart and love her tenderly. Guide my prayers
for her this year. Show me how to pray for her. Give her a heart that longs to
know more of You, and give me the patience and diligence to train her in Your ways. 
In Jesus name, Amen