Stepping Stones

There's something about a birthday that makes a mom take time for reflection (and maybe a tear or two).  Today, my Maddox Olivia turns seven years old.  Maddy.  Maddy Poo.  Mads.  Maddy O.  Olive.  Olive Oil.  Our oldest baby.  Seven is no milestone- it's not a first birthday or a double digit day- but yet it is a stepping stone.  Because she is stepping out of being a "little girl" into early adolescence.  And believe me, I can see the change.  Things that were once "beautiful" are now "so cool".   Princesses have been replaced with American Girl dolls.  And we haven't done pigtails in years.  Yet, she still cries when she scrapes a knee.  She still wants me to lie down with her at night and tickle her back.  And, she hasn't quite broken the habit of calling a finger a "thinger". 

So today, I'm recognizing all the stepping stones that lead to milestones.  Because every year is important where these little lives are concerned.  And I'm grateful for all seven of hers.  Happy Birthday, my Maddox.

One year old.  Birthday at our home in Dupont, Washington.

Two years old.  Fancy Nancy party at GranJan and Papa's house in Georgetown, KY.

Three years old.  Saw The Princess and the Frog in Richmond, VA with aunties and cousin.

 Four years old.  Her little world got turned upside down by these two, but we still managed to have a special birthday party with friends.

 Five years old.  Special night out to see The Nutcracker ballet in Charlottesville.

Six years old.  12.12.12.  Celebrated with a surprise trip to Chicago to get her first American Girl doll and then a party at home with all these adorable rockstars.