My first mother's day present was born 9 years ago today...

We love celebrating birthdays around here. It's kind of a big deal. Today's birthday girl happened to be celebrating on Mother's Day. Having a 9 yr old who has the legs of a 12 yr old and vocabulary of a 16 yr old is mind boggling. How long does this awkward, half grown, girl child phase last? No longer a baby, not old enough to do what she wants, not young enough to maintain joyful innocence, not old enough to understand she will be frustrated by questions with no answers, not young enough to like the shows her little sister wants to watch, not old enough to watch the movies her parents enjoy...She wakes up grumpy and sullen. She is quick to laugh like her momma, mouth open, eyes closed, and loud. She criticizes and corrects like her dad, wanting an absolute truth rooted in fairness. She makes friends easily. She is quick to feel slighted or hurt by carelessness of others, yet to grow a thick skin to ward off the ills of the world because she still believes in goodness and hope. She is my Cassidy Grace, my first Mother's Day present.

Cass had a low key party at the Estuarium. Her love for all things marine life and of the sea has continued to grow here. It was great that an Evergreen student who I know works there and handled the whole party!

The girls were learning all about the watershed and what happens to pollution and trash when there are no wetlands or trees.

They played with various sea creatures.

There was a jellyfish mobile arts and craft project using recycled plastic and trash.

Earlier in the day we joined friends at a lake 15 minutes away. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming were a great way to kick off a beautiful Sunday morning.

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Family Weekend at Miss Halls

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Team Smith

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