Party of Five: October 2021

Alena Jane is turning 12. The last year before those teenage years. I am going to predict that your teenage years will not be all that horrible. You are such a sweet, loving girl that I find it hard you will stray much from that.

Over this last year you have obtained braces. After having 4 teeth pulled, your braces were placed this past March. It was amazing how much your teeth moved even in those first couple weeks. I am hopeful you won't need a full 2 years of braces as we are already in the "fine tuning" phase. You adjusted well and followed the no popcorn/gummy candy rule for a while but lately have dabbled into those gummies again...

Last spring was also a crazy time as you were actually involved in 4 sports at one time: softball, volleyball, basketball and soccer. It was not intended to be this crazy but we sort of overcommitted. Thankfully that craziness only lasted a few weeks. You love all these sports and having to choose between them is very difficult. You continue to excel at all of them as well. You have become a fabulous basketball player, to add to your soccer and softball skills. I am most impressed with how much you have improved in volleyball. We decided to pass on club volleyball this year (except with Woodward Granger) but you tried out and made two local teams. I think this is your sport.

We love watching your friendships grow. You have a sweet, group of friends who have similar likes and personalities. I love that our small school will allow all of you to remain together from 6th grade to 12th. You are your goofy, outgoing self around these friends and it is refreshing to see.

Alena, you are so special to us. I look at you daily and am in awe of the person you are becoming. I now look up to you as you have outgrown me. You are more mature than most 12 year olds, are incredibly intelligent, and a naturally gifted athlete. Along with being a responsible daughter, a loving sister, and a great Parker hugger, you are beautiful inside and out. Happy 12th Birthday!