The Sweetest Sweet Sixteen

Many girls could boast of elaborate and fancy parties celebrating their sixteenth birthday. But I think even fewer could boast of such a sweet sixteenth birthday as I have experienced this past Sunday and Monday. It was made sweet by the love of my family and their thoughtful consideration for my pleasure. :) Yes, I am sixteen, and I have crossed over my left hand, containing the numbers of 11-15, and am now on the right hand with the ages 16-20 (nice theology, isn't it?) Well, let me tell you how my family made this birthday memorable.
Sunday, the day before my birthday, my mother took me on an artist's date with her. We went to a park, and then separated. I enjoyed it very much, though at first apprehensive of spending a whole hour by myself. But I walked around the pond taking pictures and amusing myself with my own thoughts and wishing I was on a photo shoot,so that I could better express my creativity. After what seemed like a few rounds, but was actually one, I met back with my mom and we soon left the park. On our way back home, we stopped at Barnes and Nobles but left a few minutes after my mother received a phone call. When we arrived home, my brother came across the street and walked me from the car to the house. I was totally "un-suspicious", and was quite surprised by the shout of "Surprise!!" and flash of the camera that greeted my ear and blinded my eyes. All at once I saw the balloons, the cake, and my Grandparents, Aunts, and two or three other dear ones (besides my immediate family;) .
Really, I was extremely surprised. I had joked with my parents about wanting a surprise birthday party, and my mother had "pretended" to speak to me of possibly getting something together next weekend. So I was not at all aware of the planning and secrecy going on behind my back. My dear family, so kind and thoughtful to give me what I wanted, and contriving my pleasure. I enjoyed myself very much, and received many pleasant and useful presents. Indeed, I got the things that I needed, like a jewelry holder and scrapbook kit, which though trifles, are very helpful for de-cluttering my stock of jewelry,and completing my collage (which I will share photos when it is).
On my actual birthday, Monday, My Grandmother took me to breakfast, a store (where she bought me much needed clothing) and the mall. And then to lunch. All the little details of pleasure made my day, and when I came home I found a beautiful bouquet waiting for me. Later on, my father treated me to a movie, and promised to take me to see New Moon when it comes out next month.
I have wished to take some time to philosophise further on the subject of becoming 16, but I've been so busy trying to catch up on my cyber school (not less than 5 hours, or more than 11 a day) that I have had very little time for meditating, which I think leaves my mind clearer.
Well, my dear neglected readers, I must say farewell and go to bed. I must also say farewell to Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park", which I am listening to on Librivox. So I wish you all well, and a Shabbat full of Shalom!