I do not recall the last time "The Pearl" asked me to take her picture. But, she had a friend over today, and as you can see they were playing "makeover." So, of course I obliged!

Ainsley had a big time yesterday at a fun rollerskating, purse making, pizza eating, facial spa night, game playing, movie watching slumber party! I picked her and the birthday girl up at 10:00am and they looked pretty good for staying up late! They faded quickly after a lengthy play date over here.

Adjusting to 4th grade has been harder than Ainsley expected. She has more homework than she has ever had.. And, of course the accountability factor has gone up. She has been working hard to get in to the rhythm of her teachers expectations. She is making progress!!! She started with A+, A+ on her first two tests, so of course we were all excited!! Hoping she can keep up her grades, and the fun social side of things too.

She continues to grow in her role as the big sister. Of course there are challenges in being the oldest. Some days "the littles" challenge her patience.. But, I love seeing the ownership she takes in caring for them too.. We went on a walk tonight.. Sienna was riding her bike and approaching a steep hill. It was Ainsley that ran to catch up with her and make sure she didn't go to fast. And, then she stuck with her the rest of the way home making sure she made it safely. They may annoy her some days, but she loves those girls, and she would do anything to protect them. I love seeing it in action!

Ainsley is trying new things this fall... Volleyball, and voice lessons from her music teacher at school! She seems to be enjoying both! Her piano teacher has had some serious health issues, so we are praying she can come back soon.

For now, she is just trying to figure out how to succeed in 4th grade when she just wants to play all day! :)