Gabi Turns EIGHT!!!!!!!!

EIGHT (!) years ago on the morning of January 28, 2013, I literally had no idea my life would change forever that day. With eternal gratitude for her birthmother, the universe knew that there was a hole in my heart that could only be filled by this baby. What began as a 5 lb. sack of sugar has grown beautifully to now measure 4 ft. 7 in. (97%) and weighs 89.8 lbs. (98%).

Gabriella Daphna is a unique, creative, beautifully smart child who loves to be in control. And she deserves to be celebrated! And that's just what we did.

She was quite excited to wake up to this table of cards and gifts sent from all over the country!

Ethan chose this plush unicorn for Gabi.

new book sent from Nora in Delaware

unicorn pillow project from baby James

While Gabi was excitedly opening presents, Ethan and Spencer took it upon themselves to engage in a dance party in birthday support and celebration!

One of the biggest hits of the day was most certainly the new nightlight silicone kitty with remote control to change colors and settings.

Loving phone calls and video chats started early, made the birthday girl smile, and continued throughout the day!

Aunt Sandi and Mira

Nana and Zayde

Uncle Mitch

Grandma and Grandpa

During the one synchronous lesson that Gabi had with school, her class sang to her!

Gabi planned a delicious menu for the day, full of meals, snacks, and treats for everyone to eat very well. TCDC was happy to support the mission with mint Oreo pudding cookies!

Yummies all around!

By the time Uncle Craig and Micah arrived up for TCDC pickup, we were fully immersed in our Music and Movement - Birthday Special Dance Party! So they joined right in.


The rest of the special day continued with smiles and snuggles.

puppy love

special Aunt Syssa time!

We experimented with a really neat gift from Nana and Zayde making paper flowers. Gabi used various dyes and coloring materials to observe how the flowers reacted differently as they absorbed the liquid. Even the adults watching hundreds of miles away were fascinated.

(In case you couldn't read it, her shirt reads "BEST DAY EVER!")

The next day, we had a superbly successful virtual Bingo Birthday Bash via Zoom! We were so grateful for our family and friends for joining, participating, interacting, smiling, and laughing!

testing the screenshot settings before the festivities

Zoom fun from multiple angles:

birthday party success!

Aunt Sandi sent us a beautiful, edible arrangement full of sweet and slightly sugary goodies!

Last couple honorable (and exciting) mentions!

new swing from Gigi

experimenting with her new 3D pen from Grandma and Grandpa