The Many Faces Of Sweet 16!

McKenna turns 16 this coming Wednesday, the 23rd. However, she will be competing at State FCCLA (Family, Community and Career Leaders of America), We celebrated this special 16th birthday today so that we could all congratulate her (and ourselves) for making it to her Sweet 16!  We love this crazy, incredible girl!
 

Many years ago while working at the Utah County Health Department, a co-worker told me she gave a pearl to all her daughters to remind them they are a "Pearl of Great Price" while on dates.  I loved the suggestion and have been waiting ever so patiently for my daughters to start turning 16.  Truly McKenna you are a valuable pearl in our family and especially to your Heavenly Father.  We are proud of you and your standards.  Thank you for setting such a great example to your little sisters and for being such a great friend to your brother! 

When McKenna was just little I told her that if she would wait to kiss a boy until after she turned 16 I would pay her $100.  I know it's technically a bet but I like to refer to it as bribery.  She made it against an impressive odd (Austin!).  I think this is really what she has looked forward to her 16th birthday for the most.  So has the rest of the school - they all thought it funny that she and her mom had this bet and that she was willing to go the distance!

Leighton helping McKenna light the candles.  Every year McKenna asks for angle food cake, and every year I somehow murder it! This year (after ruining it again)  McKenna told me just to give it up and make a triffle. Strawberries and whip cream and a few blackberries made it one impressive triffle. YUM!

Happy Sweet 16!  We love you!