Twelve Years

Our children hit some milestones this past week. The youngest one lost another tooth and officially entered my favorite phase of childhood - the double gap goofy grin. I am so excited her big teeth are nowhere to be seen so we'll get to enjoy this grin and sweet lisp for quite a while.  I'm gonna cry when the big teeth surface.

The big sister graduated up another level in reeds for her alto saxophone. Those of you fellow band nerds know how much growth a new reed level shows. For those of you who never were in band probably its similar to stepping up to new cleats in soccer or toe shoes for ballet. It's like losing another tooth. Baby steps left behind - new stuff up ahead.

I spent the evening last night following five middle school girls around the mall so they could purchase dresses for an after school dance. No way is this mama letting teens wander the mall by themselves.  I don't care if the other moms do.  Sign me up. Being a mom isn't for wimps. All five girls found dresses, all on sale and all with enough fabric to pass muster. Cheers! They also bought candy, rode the quarter little kid rides and tested out every single makeup sample.  I grinned as I watched. 

What I've discovered about middle school is the stories people tell aren't the full truth. Sure - middle school is emotional and hard and awkward. Girl drama sucks. But it's also sweet and joyful and precious. We do best when I remind myself I'm the adult. If I can be stable and centered and grin instead of yell we'll be just fine. 

My house will have teenage daughters for twelve straight crazy fantastic years. 

 Be still my heart. It's gonna burst.