Our Third Teenager

Laura had the audacity to turn 13 this year - kicking off a year of milestone birthdays for all five of us! 

Much like the age, her birthday had its ups and downs. After ringing in the New Year with a stomach bug, she was recovered on her actual birthday and spent the day - as always - with Meghan. I took them and Clare to get manis and pedis and then lunched at Tropical Smoothie (Laura’s choice). 

Later in the afternoon I took them ice skating, as they had greatly enjoyed their visit a few weeks earlier. Unfortunately, it being the last day of Christmas break for the vast majority of the city, the place was packed, so they didn’t last too long. We cut our losses and headed home for hot apple cider and gifts! Then the girls gamed while I made dinner (flank steak, crescent rolls, and Laura’s favorite salad). We finished the day with cake, at which point Tim, Danny and Clare were all home and around to enjoy.

Unfortunately, it seems Laura overdid the food on her big day, because she woke up and got sick once again. Thankfully it was a one-time occurrence, but we still had to reschedule the lunch outing we had planned with her friends from school. She was understandably devastated about this, but thankfully perked up by the end of the day. Silver lining: It will simply extend the celebration!

For a girl who was known as The Menace in her toddler years, she’s come a long way, and we all love our new teenager dearly!