Happy Birthday, Eli!

In ten days, I go back to work.  I think.  I hope.  That's the plan.  

The truth is, I'm terrified.  I've lost all confidence in what I learned before, plus it is going to be so hard to leave Annika home alone during these long days when she can't go to school and is bored out of her mind and missing friends.  Add to that the stress of night shifts beginning a month later, and it's enough to talk me out of working forever.  But I digress!  The point is, I'd like to be caught up on this blog before I go back to work, which means I have to hustle.

The last time I blogged chronologically, it was September.  We left off at Eli's birthday.  Happy 15th on the 16th, Cheezstick!  You make every day brighter.  Eli is the peacemaker in our home.  He willingly helps with anything I ask, whether taking out the recycling or setting the table for dinner.  He is extremely responsible and gets himself up and out the door to school every morning.  This year he learned to ride UTA and takes the bus home from robotics practice so that I don't have to pick him up.  He even rides the bus to early morning seminary.  Eli has a super rigorous academic schedule, but works hard and is earning straight A's.  He is a super speedy runner and rocked Cross County in the fall, although lately he's switched over to cross country skiing with West High.  The only thing better is downhill skiing.  This year Jason admitted that Eli's so swift that he can't keep up with him.  Now that's saying something!  The best part about Eli, however, is his kindness.  He loves spending time with family and always makes time to play with his sisters and cousins.  We love you, Eli! 

For Eli's birthday, he asked to have a hot dog and marshmallow roast up Millcreek Canyon with family.  It's become a great September birthday tradition.  Grandma Susie, Grandpa Charles, Justin, Brianna, Violet, Ruby, and the Wilhoits all made it!

The perfect roasting coals.

Girl power.

I got Eli's age correct this year, but he made me change it to 12 just for fun.  Can't blame him--growing old is overrated.

Back at home, it was present time.  Look who got his very own snowboard!  Good thing too--we need something to slow him down on the slopes.

Also, a Lego Vespa to celebrate the newest member of the family with a driving permit.  Gotta love the powder blue.

We love you, Eli!  Happy, happy birthday.