Ashton turns eight today and, oh my, she is so excited about her birthday.  Mostly about the party (I am discovering that birthday parties are very important to my children).  We’re having the neighbors over for a simple fire in the firepit and some sharing of cake.  And that seems to be enough for Ashton.  Just a celebration of some kind, that’s all she wants.  And presents, lots of them.  The kids have been finding things around the house and wrapping them up all week so Ashton can have lots of gifts to open.  Birthday preparation is always so exciting.