Look at how long Audrey's toes are. Crazy! She's growing up so fast.
And while I often feel like I need a support group of other moms of 11-year-old girls to help keep me from losing my mind, I'm so proud of her, so amazed at the girl she's growing up to be.
(Notice I didn't say "young woman"--I am not quite ready to go that far.)
She's sound asleep still this morning, snuggled up with a friend who is spending the night. Sleepovers are typically taboo in our house, but Audrey's friend is struggling and they needed some time together, some special time to whisper and feel privileged, and be little girls in the midst of dealing with some hard things even for grown ups to navigate.
Audrey is showing care and concern and compassion. She's being a good friend, focused on her friend's needs and cares and putting her friend first. She's learning to be an encourager, the value of a note put in the mail even when you'll see her face to face after school, the blessing of being a listening ear.
And she's even doing it all without excluding Emma. Wonders never cease...
How encouraging <3
Posted by: Holly | October 25, 2009 at 08:55 AM
that is wonderful! it is SO amazing to see them grow up. this week i had the privilege of seeing my 8 year old make some mature choices. very cool.
i would like to hear your reasoning on why sleepovers are taboo at your house. my oldest is 8 and is just getting into that stage of wanting friends to sleepover or stay over at their house. just curious to hear your thoughts.
Posted by: Leah | October 25, 2009 at 09:56 AM
Oh, how special, to see them forming into mature Godly older girls. I am so looking forward to watching my children grow up and start to make choices on their own, choices that are inevitably shaped by what they have learned and experienced in the past. Her caring heart, and gentle spirit is a definite reflection on you and your mothering example.
Posted by: Chasity Ivy | October 25, 2009 at 01:54 PM
Just curious why sleepovers are taboo. I'm not a big fan myself but I'd love to hear your reasoning. Do you not allow your girls to sleep over at friends' homes either?
Enjoy every moment--our oldest is 17 and waiting to hear about her first college acceptance. Time goes too quickly!
Posted by: Jen | October 25, 2009 at 04:41 PM
Love that girl. And her little sister too.
Posted by: Marla Taviano | October 25, 2009 at 08:36 PM
Sweet picture. Just wondering, why are sleepovers considered taboo in your house? My daughter rarely has them, but my 14 yr. old son constantly has someone over (or so it seems!)
Posted by: Kristy | October 25, 2009 at 09:12 PM
I totally get your post! My daughter is 13 and becoming a young woman before our eyes...she's getting tall and has passed my shoe size (stink!) and turning into a wonderful young lady. There are the moments when I might think we'll drive each other to insanity, but there are so many others where I am so incredibly proud.
Great post. So neat to see your daughter reaching out...you are doing a good job mama.
Posted by: dawn | October 25, 2009 at 09:13 PM
Joanne, I am so glad Audrey is learning the importance of sending someone a card or letter in the mail! I am a big believer in non-bill mail...with all of our electronic communications these days, the only thing most of us get are promotional flyers, credit offers and bills! But what an encouargement it is to get something from someone that is just designed to bless you when it's not even Christmas or your birthday! When friends are struggling, sending a little something in the mail can do so much to lift their spirits. Thank you Audrey for doing your part to save the art of handwritten communication!
Praying for Audrey's friend and for your ministry to her and her family,
Aurora
Posted by: Aurora | October 25, 2009 at 10:21 PM
Love this post! Mine are only 3 and 1, but already I love seeing Jesus in them and their actions! Thanks a bunch for sharing your girls, they are wonderfully made and have a wonderful mom (and dad!). Happy Monday!
Posted by: Mandy | October 26, 2009 at 10:36 AM