My Taylor is going to learn to drive!!

What happened to my 18 month old who used to say "La Lou Merry Much" and who spent the next 8 years (at least) wearing a fur boa tucked into her pants so she could crawl around and be a puppy?
These days she spends time doing high school which means friends(sadly they've replaced us), academics, and racing around the track field, the soccer field, and the basketball court. She still amazes me with her speed but it doesn't suprise me--I have this vision in my mind of a 5-year-old chasing butterflies through the field and catching water snakes and other critters she won't let me mention.
At times I'm baffled by the typical teenage stuff--but notice that I hold very still and listen closely in those rare moments when she graces us with more than a one-syllable response. (To think I used to tune her out when she would talk nonstop about anything and everything)
I miss the carefree little girl but am so pleased when little pieces of what she is becoming inadvertently slip out in conversation. She seems wise beyond her years at times and very poised. Today she was suprisingly a little rattled when we went to the DMV to get set up for Driver's Ed. I sensed this was a rite of passage for her: she double-checked, triple-checked to be sure we had all the necessary documents and then forgot her photo ID. She made sure she fixed her hair and make-up for the picture because she had just come from track practice. She is counting the days until she will be driving and never misses the opportunity to let me know how great it will be when she can get herself home from sports and run errands for me.
I'm sure I'll be grateful and also a little sad at just one more step towards independence and another step away from having to rely on us.

X Country Skiing at Harriman State Park

During the holidays, we had a little getaway up to Island Park with my Brother, Devan and his family. My S-in-Law, Lynn, and I took the kids on their first cross country skiing adventure.
Thank you, Beck Family, for letting us crash your party. It was wonderful!

Jake picked up on X-country fast. He stayed happy and on the move. He and Charlie were the first two back to the car.

Jenna and Louisa. The day was perfect. Blue skies and not to cold. We skied on groomed trails into a warming cabin and had hot chocolate (the perfect motivation to keep the kids moving). The kids were such troopers. We figure they skied over 2 miles.

Jenna Age 6

Island Park Getaway

Jakie-Blue-Eyes. Love to see this smile on your face, Jake.

At the Cabin in Island Park

We love you Annie!