Birthday time!

Ruby wanted to have a sleepover birthday party and she and her friends were so excited!

Happy 9th Birthday!!!! The Jelly Bean Cake was a big hit!

Ruby was so excited to receive this skateboard - just what she wanted!

Family present time - on Ruby's actual birthday

Ruby received a set of dolls she has had her eye on for a few years.

Each girl painted to ceramic figures to take home with her after the sleepover.

This was the first time we have had a "real" sleepover, and it went pretty well.

I'm curious though, when it is time for bed and the sleepover group is not settling down, what are some things you have tried or recommend doing to encourage going to sleep (or just quieting down so younger siblings can fall asleep)?

Ruby has been practicing "Jingle Bells" on the piano

Ruby made a table setting for one of her dolls. She even made her a book to read at the table, one of the girls' favorite activities!!

I love how Ruby arranged the dollhouse with some of the dollhouse furniture she got as a birthday present. I especially like the grandpa, in the bathroom reading the newspaper!!! (this is not a direct imitation of any acquaintances of Ruby's, specifically not one of her own grandfathers!!)