growing up

There is probably nothing in life that creates such mixed emotions as my children growing up.  I love each new stage they enter.  I love how the mother-child relationship changes through each new stage of childhood.  I love that my children take on a new level of independence and responsibility.  I love most that their hearts begin to mature and in tender moments their sweetness comes pouring through.

One of these such moments happened last night.  The son of one of our of dear family friends fell last night on his rip stick and broke his arm terribly.  When Calleigh came home from practicing basketball at the gym, she sent a text to all of friends that made my mother heart smile and tears come to my eyes.
     
     "Please pray for Tate.  He was doing something and broke his arm. Will possible have surgrey.  We are pray for fast recovery and healing.  Please pray!!"

Through the misspelling and missing words, the meaning came through loud and clear.  It touched my heart that she would call her friends to pray for their friend.  She is growing up and maturing.

Over the last months she has been asking if she could start shaving her legs.  In my mind, I had a clear cut time frame for these things to happen.  Fifth grade wasn't really what I had planned.  But, I also hadn't planned on her being so mature and grown up in fifth grade either.  I tried to blow if off and put her off at first.  That only lasted a little while.  She was persistent.  Hairy legs "embarrass" her.

I gave in.  As I sat on the bathtub this week showing her how to shave her legs, I had a smile on my face, but an ache in my heart as I realized another sign of her growing up.  As much as I love the young lady that she is becoming...I HATE IT!!!

I was doing some cleaning last night and came across a picture we took on our cruise just last summer.  I couldn't believe how much she has changed in a few short months.  She is losing her little girl looks and changing into a beautiful young lady...inside and out.

Treasure the moments with your babes...they will be gone much to soon!!!

Be blessed,