HI ALL! Shawnna's birthday was on Saturday, 1-10 but it started early on Friday evening. Everyone piled into the car and was off to the movies to see the new Adam Sandler flic 'Bedtime Stories.' Shawnna said it was pretty funny, even Andy thought it was good, of course, he really likes Adam Sandler...

The next morning, Andy made special chocolate chip peanut pancakes with cinnamon streusel topping for the Birthday Girl. It was her own recipe and they look really scrumpuous!! Wish I'd been there to enjoy too!

For her 8th Birthday, Shawnna decided it was time to get her ears pierced, so, it was off to the 'Piercing Pagoda' at the local shopping mall. Of course, it takes a while to pick out just the right pair of studs to do the job! Especially with your little brother trying to help!

Once the selection is made it's time to get in the chair and mark the spot! Ever realizing the time is getting closer to...

Then Dad gives a little encouragment as the tension mounts!

Here comes the needle - ready or not!!

The moment of truth!! The deed is done - now the real pain starts to set in!

And now the tears are flowing, but not for long! The pain finally subsides and she thinks she'll live, but I can't quite tell if Shawnna thinks this was a good idea or not or maybe it won't be so bad after all - she hopes!!

Now it's time to go have some 'real birthday' fun! The family 'raced' off to the DC Convention Center for some 'MotoCross Racing' - which I'm sure Shawnna thought was way more exciting and less painful that getting your ears pierced!!

Later that night back at home, Shawnna looks happy about getting her ear's pierced and shows off her new earrings and a smile!

Love, Grandma TaTa