Clipboard of Fun: Double Digits for Laurel!

Sweet tiny Laurel Ann turns 10 years old today! She has been such a blessing to our family the past 10 years. Laurel is kind-hearted, thoughtful, just, smart, logical, expressive, active, and responsible. She is so content with whatever situation she is in.....her preference is to be home with her family, but she likes going to friend's houses as well. As the growing up gets more challenging with changing social situations and different experiences, she seems to just coast through unaffected. One thing I truly admire about her is she doesn't get envious of others but rather rejoices with them and is thankful for where she is. Her heart is still pure and innocent and while her questions become deeper and more thoughtful, she remains happy and sure of who she is. Laurel's temper can rage full on and we just try and get through her "Laurel Days" without too much damage. She has found her favorite thing to do when angry is go to her room, which is great for everyone in the family! Her mood can be quite low one day and then a few days later we can't keep up with her enthusiastic cheerfulness. I wish the two swings weren't so severe, but the in between moods come up much more frequently and I am so blessed with those days! Laurel loves her dogs, swimming, chocolate, hamburgers, watching movies, PlayMobil sets, bacon, soccer, foot rubs, sewing, and playing outside around our house. She doesn't like salad, reading, getting up early, her brother in her room without knocking, setting the table, or Mexican restaurants. It seems like she has grown so much physically and mentally in the past few months....she is usually holding a baby at church when it seems like she was just the baby being held at church! She has a few special elderly ladies at church that she gently hugs each time she sees them and I know it makes their day brighter. Laurel is a wonderful friend and sister and a great example to kids around her. Even when it is difficult to do the right thing she can stand her ground. She talks incessantly when she's nervous and asks thoughtful, direct questions that don't require a lot of excess words when she's curious. If you ever receive a hand written note from Laurel, consider yourself lucky. She writes eloquently, beautifully and truly from the heart.....her spelling needs a lot of attention, but the sentiment is there. This little girl that God has placed in our care is certainly a wonder to watch grow and develop and love and be an example of a pure heart for everyone in our family. We love you so much Lolo!