My Baby Turns 14

Last week Paris turns 14. She was elated to wake up to buckets of snow falling from the sky, because this meant "snow day." Translation: No school. It was the best birthday present she could have received. This Birthday reminded me of her 8th Birthday when we lived in San Diego. They were having intense wildfires and the sky looked burnt orange and it smelled awful. The kids couldn't go outside and of course school was canceled. We came up with a "Birthday Itenerary". It outlined the day in 15 minute increments. We had to get creative since this isn't what we planned. It turned out to be a great day, just like her 14th. She once again couldn't go outside because all her "snow clothes" are at the cabin. She did do a little playing outside, but not much. All day I kept thinking I lucky I am to be her mom. Here are 14 of my favorite things about her. Hard to whittle down. These are in no particular order.

1. I love what a great sister she is. She adores her siblings and is very kind to them. I especially love the way she treats Madeline and Ava. Their eyes light up when she walks in the room. She does sweet things with them and has a way of making them feel special. She takes her job as the "oldest child" very seriously and is really good at it!

2. She has an "attitude of gratitude"

3. She loves being with me and still likes me coming on her field trips. She will kiss me on the cheek, and hold my hand even when we are with her friends.

4. I love the way she treats others and generally views the world. She includes everyone around her and never puts herself above others.

5. She has a testimony and is dilligent about reading her scriptures. (she stretches and reads every night)

6. She loves to read, and will escape for hours. Sometimes when we are on vacation I have to stop her.

7. She knows she is smart, but never wants anyone else to feel like they are not.

8. She has beautiful handwriting.

9. She is a great cook and fantastic and presenting food and setting a table.

10. She is a perfect babysitter, and never complains about it. She babysits every saturday night for us, and gives up all kinds of other activities. She has never once complained.

11. She loves to talk to me, and is willing to share her life with me.

12. She is confident without ever being arrogant.

13. She has a great sense of humor.

14. She is beautiful inside and out.