Guess Who's 11 ?!?!

This girl right here!

What can we say about this girl of ours? She is so bright and sweet and sensitive. She loves art and music and animals. She cares about people and never wants anyone to feel left out or get their feelings hurt. She loves Jesus and loves telling people about Him. She's been the "easy" one, ever since she was in the womb. I had a nearly normal pregnancy, with only a brief flare up, that lasted 38+ weeks (and would likely have lasted longer if I hadn't used some home remedies to self-induce). She was my easiest labor, delivery and recovery. And, overall, she's such an easy-going kid. We are so proud of the young woman she's becoming. 11 already! I'm not sure I'm ready for her to grow up, but, it's been such a joy to see. As we are on the brink of tweendom, we've noticed she spends more time on the phone, is paying more attention to her style and her hygiene, and spending less time with some of her "childish" toys. I'm guess she's not my "baby girl" anymore, but I still call her that -- 11 or otherwise!

To celebrate her, I've let her pick the menu for the week, as is birthday tradition in this house. My parents came up and took her to lunch, we played games, we had some brownies for a birthday treat, and then Mike helped make some cupcakes to share with her class Monday afternoon. Another example of her easy-going nature: she didn't act at all ungrateful for this very low-key birthday celebration. She just took it in stride and enjoyed a day with her family. And, I couldn't be more grateful (being in the thick of studying for finals). We all had a great day!

Happy Birthday, Laynie-lynn. We love you!