We have now entered the teenage years and so far, I love it. Yes, there are challenges as with any season of parenting. And there are definitely changes. But I love my first-born and I am so thankful for our relationship. We had so much fun celebrating her. In mid-September we took her to a friends’ place on the Choctawhatchee Bay. It was just the three of us for 24 hours and then she and I were able to stay a second night and have some girl time. It was a lovely time.

On her actual birthday, we had a party. She wanted a book party (shocking, I know). Everyone was supposed to come dressed up as their favorite book character and bring food from their favorite book. We made bookmarks from old books, played games, ate good food and fellowshipped. There was also a book exchange; everyone went home with a book! It was a wonderful way to celebrate her.

A few days after her birthday we had a girls day. It was Aliza’s gift to Kathryn. Lunch out and a visit to a local bookstore where she could pick out two books. It was so special.

In early October, my Mom took her out for a girls day to celebrate Kathryn. I don’t have any pictures but they had a great time. I’m excited for this new season with Kathryn. I know it will stretch me as a Mom but I really am so thankful for her. We spend a lot of time together and she can read me like a book. She loves to make me laugh especially when I am stressed. It’s such a blessing watching her grow into a young lady.