Marissa Turns the BIG 18!!!

What a special day!!!  I'm so excited for her.

I stayed up late the night before making a banner and getting things ready to have a special "Happy Birthday" for Marissa on her 18th birthday!!!

Marissa and her 18 balloon

I had 18 balloons in a variety of colors, each one had a photo "through the years" of her and a heart that told her why I love her so!!!!  I had arranged them in a straight line in front of the fire place (because there were just too many to do on the kitchen table), but then she moved them for the photo!!!

Will the balloons take her away - like in UP?

She had a early morning track team photos and practice so we were up and out of the house by 8:30 am.  She hadn't been feeling well all week so after team photos her coach told her it was okay not to practice.  She came home to rest and sleep.

Robert had a seminary activity - so we waited for him to finish before taking her out for her birthday dinner.

 We took her out for our traditional "Birthday Dinner" where ever they want to eat and guess where she chose???  You guessed it, The Cheesecake Factory.
We had a wonderful time there, and everyone enjoyed their meal.  She was sung to and presented with a "Birthday" cheesecake that said "Happy Birthday to you"

When we got home, Isabelle Watkins was just arriving there too.  She came in and had presents for Marissa.  She got her a "Gray's Anatomy" mug and some awesome nail polish.  Marissa loved it!

We then opened presents from Mom and Dad.  Her real present was her trip to UT to see Jessica and Ski in the Utah mountains.  But, of course, Betsy can't let a birthday be celebrated without presents ... she she got her a new dress, her 2014 MArissa photo album, a BYU license plate, and hair clips.  What girl doesn't need new hair clips.

new dress

2014 photo album of Marissa

HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY DEAR SWEET MARISSA!  She is such a joy to our lives!  We love her so much and now she is growing up before our eyes.  It's so crazy to think that in 6 months from now she will be off at college.

I'm so proud of her and all her accomplishments!  She's amazing!!!!