life is beautiful: Madison's 7th birthday

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Madison's 7th birthday

Madison and Kamdyn had their birthday party together this year. I think this will probably be the last year that we can do that. I'm seeing more and more how quickly this thing of "growing up" happens. It seems like as the age of 7 approaches, the growing up meter kicks into high speed.

Light pink is for babies, Disney Princesses are kiddie stuff, fashion is of the uttermost importance, and being the "big kid" is where it's at. She's already talking about when she can have a phone, wear make-up, and get married.

Right after Christmas, Madison learned to ride a bike without training wheels. We worked on that for so long, and we were thrilled when she got it. When they're little, everything is a milestone. The milestones may not be as frequent now, but they're just as big.

I remember when Madison was born, and I thought that having a baby was so hard. Not to be all Debby Downer, but if only I had realized how simple life was then. Because now, she is her own person, who has her own feelings and thoughts and ideas. And I'm trying to figure out how to instill all of the things that I want her to carry for the rest of her life, like thankfulness, kindness, graciousness, and on and on.

One day it's poopy diapers and midnight feedings, and before you know it, you're trying to figure out how to tell her to deal with that kid who was mean to her. Your mama bear part wants to just tell her to give it right back, but you know that kindness and forgiveness will go a lot further in the long run.

Madison loves anything artistic or hands-on.

The night before her actual birthday, we had a girls night with movie, popcorn, nails, and make-up with cousin Alicia.

We set up the bathroom like a spa. They soaked their feet in warm, soapy bubbles, while soft music played and a vanilla candle scented the room. They were so cute, and they thought it was great.