Birthday Girl

 

Eleven years ago today at just about this exact time, my first granddaughter made her grand entrance into our hearts and lives. Little did we know then just how much our lives would change as a result of her birth. We have absolutely enjoyed every minute of her. She is one of a kind, unique and truly a gift to us from God. He looked down and saw our family and said, "Wait, I'm not finished yet." and then he gave us Kayleigh. I'm sure every grandparent feels this way but every mother doesn't get a "do over" like I did. I hope and pray I am doing things a little better this time around. I feel like I need to apologize to my daughters daily for some of my mothering tactics and things I put them through. (Sorry again girls) but I am not alone for MOST mothers out there feel that they would change a lot of things if they had a second chance. Some things never change, like keeping their rooms picked up and completing homework. Those things parents will probably argue about until the end of time. But other things, that do not affect their values and morals and personalities should not be made into such issues. I am definitely learning to choose my battles. I just want to keep her 11 forever. I know there is so much out there that can hurt her and I want to protect her innocence as long as I have breath in me.

 

Over the weekend she got a facial from her mama along with one of her friends. It is starting already, this interest in appearance and clothes and who is her BFF this week. ALl the things pre teens think are SO important. If they only knew.... These things really don't matter in the big picture of life. But they won't realize that til they are much older. (This is turning into a really serious post, sorry guys)

 

Ok, here she is again in all her quirky cuteness. Her other grandmother gave her a Kindle for her birthday and I am a little jealous that she got one before me. We both LOVE to read. I was one of those geeky kids who had the flashlight under the blanket after my mom said lights out. I ALWAYS got caught and got in trouble. Now she is reading Nancy Drew books, my all time favorite at her age. I am so thankful that we share this love of reading.

I will leave you with one final shot, taken this weekend at he lake. Mike was reading his Bible Sunday morning and walked away from his desk. Ellis (who is only 2) hopped up in his chair, put on his glasses (sort of) and proceeded to pore over the scriptures. I can't believe I got this on camera. This little guy runs when he sees a camera aimed at him. Can't imagine why???