Sevenly is Heavenly

Today my big girl turned 7. And at the risk of being one of those women who constantly talk about days gone by...well, they really are flying by. So much of the past few years have been snippets here and there of hands on parenting of my Linley and I have missed many more moments than I ever wanted, but thankfully the girl keeps on getting better and better and better.

Although apparently she is already almost 17 now that she's turned seven years old. Not sure quite how to explain that one to her since she is good at math but apparently has a greater than normal imagination.

She's a silly one.

Linley requested oatmeal with sprinkles for breakfast and I agreed to keep the carrots out of her lunch as a sign of love. Dinner was pizza and she finished off the night curled up on the couch with me and Piper and watched Annie. Because it was a school day she was gone but I was able to visit her class and bring the microphone cupcakes she wanted and even was able to read to her class when we went to the Library.

Mothering Linley has always been a joy. She is possibly the most enjoyable little girl out there and I often watch her as she sleeps and wonder why I am so blessed. She is learning her boundaries and learning the time and place for sassiness. She is a advanced reader and she is working hard on math facts. She loves to veg on the couch and watch movies but she can hold her own on the skating rink. Linley chose earlier to follow Jesus and we have seen a sensitivity to correction and guidance since then. She now has bangs and despite her smaller than normal stature she looks older somehow. She is still happy to hold my hands and will eagerly curl up to me if she catches me sitting still. Sleepovers are often requested and we have had our share of them this year as yet another sign that this girl of mine is growing up.

Linley is as amazing today as she was the day I delivered her. I love her with that simple adoration reserved for little girls. Each day and each year that passes gives me little glimpses of the woman she will be and I praise God that I have a hands on role in helping to shape her into a Godly woman who is confident and strong and gracious.

You are well on your way to being 17 my sweet Linley Coe, but please don't forget to love seven a little on your way.

Thank you for making me a mommy and know that no matter how much you believe I love you, there is a God who loves you even more than I ever could. You're a blessing to me.