Amelia's (belated) birthday celebration

Because Amelia's birthday is in July when lots of families are traveling over the summer, we usually celebrate several months later once school is in session. This year Amelia celebrated her birthday at the end of the second week of school. Her choice of activity? A trip to Dave & Busters with several friends, followed by a sleepover at our house.

Amelia invited her BFFs Taylor, Katrina, and Leila to the party, and we were fortunate that all of the girls could attend. The girls were so happy once we arrived at D&B on Friday evening!

Scott and John were left alone for the night - they went to dinner and a movie - so I was in charge of this special outing with the girls. Now many of you will know that D& B is not exactly my favorite place in the world. The incessant blinking noises of the games bothers me, and I honestly find the whole spectacle to be a ridiculous waste of money. However, this trip was much better than others I have experienced in the past. The girls are old enough they were able to independently enjoy the games (they checked in with me periodically) while I sat in the restaurant and read my book while slowly sipping Stella on draft. Win win! It was quite relaxing, to be honest.

This is what I found when I stepped out of the restaurant to check in on the girls. They were playing a horse racing game against each other.

Amelia and Leila were trying to win lots of tickets!

I called it a night just before 9:00 and we returned back home for cake and a movie. The girls lounged on the bed in the guest room, watching The Lego Movie and eating candy.

And while it was way past my normal bedtime, I was pleased that the girls cooperated and went to sleep before midnight as I requested. Apparently it's considered on the early side in the 6th grade sleep-over world to go to bed before midnight, but I am happy to say that we pulled it off that evening.

This group of girls is so sweet, and I feel fortunate that Amelia has such good friends. While it can be a little bit awkward being the mom around a foursome of 11 year-old girls at times, they are all so nice and friendly with one another that they are a pleasure to be around.

Happy 11th birthday to our sweet Amelia! It is a true joy to be your mom and to watch you celebrate this joyous occasion with your best friends.