7 years

Last night, I told the kids the story of G-bear's birth.  They all wanted to hear it again.  I was struck by how much I remember (more than I told them), and how clearly. The silly feeling of laying with acupuncture needles in my ears to induce labor, walking for miles and miles, the onset of labor right at the sound of Prairie Home Companion, Yo Yo Ma playing Bach cello suites as she was born, the work, the moments of fear, and when she came out (posterior!), the overwhelming love and joy.  I even remember, after getting a bath, and drinking Mom's amazing spinach-lemon soup, watching Napoleon Dynamite while all 4 of us cuddled on the living room floor (2 girls asleep).  

 It's been 7 years, and it's one of those things where time is irrelevant.  It's unbelievable and yet so believable.  To me, it seems like this girl, full of spirit and emotion and passion has been showing herself to us from day 1.  We absolutely love how the character bursts out of her.  We love how adoring she is, and how easily she relates to people.  We love her sharp, quick mind.  We love her musical (and auditory) sense. We love the way she has always seemed connected to things that are other-worldly.  We are excited to watch her grow into herself more and more.  

For her 7th birthday, G-bear had her first slumber party.  It was lots of fun.  Lucky for Moo, G-bear adores some older kids and invited some of Moo's friends too.  Giggle subsided not long after 10, and began again not long after 6.  Well worth it!

Our wonderful, adoring, generous neighbor made the cake again this year, and it was (of course) fabulous!