Elena's 3rd Birthday, Part 2. Otherwise titled "Awesome family and More Steroids"

So, remember how I said that we had a big celebration planned for the Saturday after Elena's birthday ("Elena Day")? Well, then there was this little part where we spent most of Elena's actual birthday at the doctor's with Lily and then we were in the hospital for the better part of Tuesday-Saturday afternoon. Yeah, that little matter. So, nothing would have actually happened for Elena Day on Saturday if it hadn't been for some of our great family members swooping in to rescue things. My sister-in-law, Amy, babysat Elena twice on Monday so we could be at the doctor (who has a no-siblings in the appointment policy - kind of annoying when you're there multiple times a week)/hospital. And then another sister-in-law, Christy, kept Elena over at her house for the rest of the week AND took over the birthday party for me. I'm so glad she did because, let's face it - nothing was going to happen otherwise. And then my mom made the most incredible cake (see below) for Elena's party. And then there were multiple offers of help from my mother-in-law, sister-in-law who lives in another state, and many others. We have the best family. Thanks everyone!

Lily was released from the hospital on Saturday afternoon and we raced up to Salt Lake to be with Elena at her party. Here's a few pictures from the party on Saturday:

Swinging with awesome Uncle Andrew

Some of the spread. At first, we weren't going to have any food. But thank heavens we did! It was steroidal Elena's favorite part of the party. :) Thanks again to Christy (on the right) who made it happen.

Elena, with cute cousin Sophie, doing what she does best these days. :)

More of Elena doing her thing. This picture makes me want to laugh and cry. On the one hand, it was hilarious how much she loved her soda. She kept it close by her the whole time and she looked awfully funny chugging from the bottle. :) On the other hand, this captures the sad look in her eyes that's often there during steroids/hard chemo. She was totally wiped out. Poor, brave girl.

Elena loves Disney Princesses, something fierce. Can you guess what we'll most likely be doing for Make A Wish? :)

Again, the steroids - this was the biggest smile we could get out of her.

But, check out that cake!! Holy moly - my mom outdid herself. I've witnessed a lot of her awesome creations in my time, but this took the cake. (Haha... pun intended.)

Blowing out the candles

Opening Presents

But, for the real story of how the present opening went, look here. Elena could have cared less about her presents - she just wanted food. Surprise, surprise. Say it with me now - STEROIDS! She was in love with the chips and salsa. After each present, she would get up from her chair, walk over to the table and start eating again. We had to drag her away to get through the presents. :) Here's Sophie bringing her present to her and trying to get her to open it. Haha.

(photo credit for #4-9,12 go to Christy)

Thanks to all who celebrated with us and who made it happen! You guys rock! And to all who had to stay away - we missed you! But, we appreciate your sacrifice for Elena's health.

Coming up: The "Light the Night" Walk