Zoe turns 4 :)

 Today was my daughter's 4th birthday party with some friends we have met recently since moving here. Due to the overcast weather I had to rethink our outdoor fun party, and make it into something fun we could do inside. I decided that a "movie theme" was the way to go (even though the kids really didn't seem interested in the movie as much as the snack shack we created ;) I put out lots of things you might find at your local theater like popcorn, soft pretzels, and candy...lots and lots of candy!

 We sang happy birthday, and ate cake and the kids ran around and played while the moms just sat around and talked. It was lovely actually...

 This is probably the least money I have ever spent on throwing a party for my daughter. Actually everything I bought came from a dollar store or Walmart. I didn't go all out and crazy like I usually do, and honestly I feel like this was probably the best party she has ever had. She was so happy, and cried when her friends left to go home.

 I think we have forgotten how simple life can be. A child doesn't need extravagance to feel loved and excited. A child just needs a great group of friends, some good food, and of course cake and candy to have a great party. We moved here because we craved a simpler life. A life that wasn't measured on how much money you make, or how successful you were, or how big your house was, or what kind of car you drove. We wanted a life that was filled with people who shared our thoughts, and values, and just wanted to live the best life they could without feeling pressure to fit in.

I can honestly say now, after a few months of questions and regrets, we made the right choice. We are happy with where life has taken us, and know that God guided us to this place to live well, and begin a new journey. We are exactly where we are supposed to be at this time in our lives, and I can't wait to see where the years from now lead us. Happy birthday sweetie, I'm so glad you had a wonderful day.