The growing up thing

Gosh yes, I know I have been quiet - it's just busy at work and I try to squeeze off some time to spend with the kids during the school holidays. But I do have lots to write about .

I think a lot of you are aware that I love the stage our kids are in now. Make no mistake - every phase has its beauty and wonder - but I do find this stage where their independence grows so very rewarding. To see them on Saturday morning on the horses - how well they ride and how much confidence they show - Mr L had my heart singing - leading his class on his own with such great posture.

 Another step ahead was that Hunter taught all 3 kids how to row on their own while we were on holiday. Last time we rowed they were tiny little people and Hunter rowed us all in  a boat. Now they are 3 rowers - each in their own kayak - rowing strongly, balancing and steering well. Amazing their mom!

There are however always moments that we feel they grow up way too fast - moments where you think that this can not possibly be your child that is this big? Cue in a moment at Sanlameer when A and her friend came running out of the sea in their bikinis - not looking like the two 11 year olds they are but rather two excited teenagers chatting away. That my friends was way too fast. Thank goodness that later that evening they played pretend games with their younger siblings with as much gusto as ever. It's that odd in between phase I guess - to be appreciated on it's own too.

Some moments however are just perfect - on Saturday A and I tackled her room and donated much of what was little girl in it. All the baby dolls went, carry cots, camping cot, their accessories etc. Other little dolls, animals and some soft toys. Tea sets and pretend food. She kept her Barbies - up in her cupboard, and her two Lalaloopsies, my old Cabbage patch kids and her two Trashcan kidz and of course her Lego - and some other little odds like her little ponies, Zoobles en Little Pet shops. I am sure in the near future some of that will go to - but not too soon. Just a few shelves full - to make space for books. I love that she decluttered with such joy and happiness - I guess we should have done it long ago but for her the timing was right -  there was no sadness about it. Just joy at the thought that other little girls will love it and that she is making a better space in her room for herself. It also made me very happy to get rid of 5 black bags of stuff. We were exhausted after 4 hours of going through almost everything in that room but it is so rewarding.

So tell me about the phases your kids are in - are you enjoying it? Or did you enjoy the younger ones more?