Lacey at 9

As we celebrate Lacey's birthday, we are having fun reflecting on the experience that we have had getting to know her.  Thinking about what to highlight in her birthday blog, I realized that the ability to write very much represents Lacey.  When we met her, she had never  held a book in her hands.  Now, she loves to read.  The other day I actually found myself explaining to her that not all written words are meant to be read aloud!  I selected some written artifacts and some photos that represent the Lacey we have come to know.  

This first sample was written in September 2012, at the beginning of Lacey's second grade year.  Her elementary school had embraced a program that aims to teach the kids how to be "quality students."  Over the first week, the kids crafted a classroom mission statement and then were supposed to add what it meant to them.  Lacey's response pretty much summarizes her approach to life:

Yes, Lacey loves having fun and approaches everything with enthusiasm.  We work very hard at helping her understand the notion of consequences.  However, the joyful way she approaches almost everything is just so much fun.

Here is Lacey getting ready to let go of the wheelchair with her three year old cousin inside.  I came out just in time!

Lacey's first trip to Bear Workshop

Ballerina of the Day

    Yes, Lacey is happy.  Whether playing Wii, helping me fold laundry, riding her bike or doing her homework, she is genuinely happy.  Her only unhappy moments in life are when she has to wash her face or brush her hair!                                                                 

In the back yard

This next artifact represents Lacey's relationship with Cassie.  This is the sign that Lacey hung on the back of Cassie's chair for her birthday.   Lacey is just incredibly unselfish when it comes to Cassie.  She was probably more excited about Cassie's birthday than Cassie was.  

In November, as part of her black belt preparation, Cassie was required to give a public demonstration.  She did this at Lacey's elementary school, with Lacey as her assistant.  Lacey has attended Taekwondo summer camp and has earned her white belt.  So, she was more than willing to help.  Look at what a good sport she was!

Here are the girls after the black belt ceremony.  We asked Lacey if she would like to take classes and earn a black belt.  She said, "No way!  It's too much work!"

Cassie was squeamish about touching the seeds so Lacey agreed to do it.

Perfect costumes - a free-spirited owl and a cop!

Lacey braved the weather at a Civil War celebration for Cassie's sake.

Cassie convinced Lacey to sample Shamrock Shakes.

Saving the best for last.... This Spring, Lacey's class studied ancient China.  They learned about the Chinese zodiac and had to write about their birthdays.  Here is Lacey's description of herself:

The last sentence said, "I peel bananas."

Lacey and Gaby

Les' birthday

Studying with Oma

Doing nails with Cousin Nicola

Decorating cookies with little cousins

Christmas

Sisters

We celebrated Lacey's birthday at the American Girl Place Bistro.  As we waited for our food, the girls read aloud conversation prompts.

Lacey:  Have you ever been lucky and if so, explain.
Cassie:  Yes, when I got you.

Cassie:  What's your favorite childhood memory?
Lacey:  Playing with you, Cassie!