Lauren will be turning 12 on July 30th. This means a lot of things....She will be starting Young Womens, entering 7th grade in the fall, getting her bottom braces on, continuing in her love of reading (she's almost done with the Work and the Glory series)playing the clarinet and piano, babysitting more regularly and with pay (yeah) for Mom and Dad, going to Girl's camp next year, refining her taste in music and clothes, cooking more for Mom, and who even knows what else! 
Everyone always told me to enjoy every day with your children, they grow up so fast. I have tried to do this for the most part, but I think it may just be in our human nature to get caught up in the every day hubbub and forget to cherish the small things. I think this is especially true in the case of our children. I am so grateful for the chance to enjoy my new hobby of photography. I gives me the chance to document the small things and show myself and others just who my family is and how fast we are all changing. Lauren is such a joy to our family. She is such a huge helper and always has been. I am so fortunate as a mother to have her in my life. She teaches me endless lessons on life and how to live better.
Lauren, Thank You for your growing up in our family
...we love you
...we love you