Happy Sweet 16

Learn to drive a stick -- Uncle Quinn's Mazda Speed 6

 Chrissee was pretty awesome about her birthday...sweet sixteen has been a bit stressful due to family finances -- no license, no great big party with friends.  Chrissee opted to spend the day with us checking out some of the fun, local museums.  Uncle Quinn surprised us by showing up and giving Chrissee her first official driving lesson in HIS BABY and our extended family sent her some love in the shape of Gift Cards of Happiness. 

Chrissee's favorite bird and the smallest owl in North America

Gotta be cool to party with the teenagers

Getting ready to watch my girl spread her wings

Shoot for the Sunshine, darlin'

Chrissee was also hired for her first job -- Cafe Zuppas -- and started right away.  She loves it!  She's so awesome at it, she earned the "Fast and Friendly" award her first day and is being "promoted" to her next station a whole week early because she already has the salad making down to a science.  (We're not surprised.)  Chrissee is the first (and only) flute in the Tiger Marching Band this year and has already memorized her new music for the Parade season...James and I will miss all of the free date nights she's gifted to us.  But, mostly, I will miss this sassy, sweet young girl growing woman as her time becomes more and more about what is outside of the home than what is in.