Talia's Sweet Sixteen

Time passes so quickly that it makes me want to cry!  Mostly they are happy tears of joy watching my beautiful children grow.  A few of them are tormented tears after realizing how far behind I am on this blog.  I know there's no obligation to "catch up," but I really want to, mostly because the pictures will otherwise float in the cloud indefinitely.

So...Talia Lily aka ReddiWip aka Tally Wally Doodle.  Six months ago, this gorgeous girl turned sixteen!  It's pretty appropriate that her birthday falls around Thanksgiving.  After all, we are incredibly grateful for the many ways she blesses our home and family.  She is creative, witty, compassionate, and delightfully silly.  She's a dedicated musician, conscientious student, and generous friend.  This girl has more grit and determination than anyone I know, at least once she makes up her mind.  For Talia, the biggest challenge is knowing which direction to focus all that energy.  When it comes to minor matters, she hates decision-making with a passion.  I consider her to be the consummate Renaissance woman with multiple talents in diverse areas.  While it may be difficult for her to decide on a single course of action, I can't wait to see all that she discovers over the next sixteen years.  

Look out world!  This force of nature is ready to blaze: just add sugar.  That, and the joy of FINALLY getting a cell phone.

Talia celebrated sweet sixteen with a family dinner party.  We feel so fortunate that she would want to hang with us!  The celebration was extra special since Eila's birthday is the day before Talia's.  Happy birthday girls!

Fun cousins!  From left to right: Brooklyn, Anders, Talia, Eila, Eli, and Annika.

Anders and his funny face.

The Millcreek Wheelers joined us later in the evening.  Here you can see Brooklyn holding baby Violet.

Uncle Adam and Uncle Justin.  I'm pretty certain the head is Callie's, although there's a slight chance it's mine.

But wait, the party keeps growing!  I spy a Grandma Susie, Grandpa Charles, and Uncle Ben.  Talia, you are so loved!

Speaking of love, Talia adored the clothes that Grandma Susie brought for her.  Susie wore this very outfit when she was a teen!

I just can't get enough of that smile.

Talia wasn't the only one who got to play dress-up.  We enjoyed seeing the outfits that the younger cousins discovered as well.

Last but not least, birthday cheesecake!  Eila's cake had eight candles while Talia's had a full sixteen.

Wishing every dream come true!  We love you, Talia!