Lenora at Nine

Our beautiful Lenora Faye is now 9 years old! That's one year older than the number of squiggly candles in a box so she had to use one straight one. It's also old enough to design, bake, and decorate her own cake with minimal help because she's becoming quite the whiz in the kitchen. In short, it's entirely too old for my baby girl. 

As her birthday fell in the middle of the week, we enjoyed a low key day opening gifts and eating cake. Remember when Lenora used to hate being the center of attention so much that she didn't even like us to sing to her on her birthday? Well, not any more. This year as we sang Happy Birthday, she sang right along loudly proclaiming "Happy Birthday to ME!" We loved it. Our celebrations continued on Saturday when we went swimming with two of her friends. 

The best way I know to describe Lenora is a bundle of light and energy. She brings smiles, giggles, and plenty of silliness wherever she goes. But she also brings peace and radiates goodness. We just love this little girl! 

Her silly shenanigans include everything from tricks like these... 

...to funny dances (which you better catch the first time because "I can't repeat a dance. You just have to pay attention"). 

But she's not all silliness and games. Lenora is genuine in all she does. She's a fierce, loyal friend. She can be found both hanging out with the older girls and leading the boys in great adventures. We appreciate her kindness, her goodness, and her willingness to help out. 

This year Lenora has really caught the reading bug. She's always liked reading, but now it's the first thing she does every morning. She likes to grab a blanket and cuddle up on the heater with her book! 

This year Lenora has also continued to come out of her shell and form more of her own opinions. In the past, she was so eager to please everyone that she would often respond with "I'm fine with whatever" or "I'll take whichever one you don't want." While she's still very considerate of the feelings of others, she's also more ready to make her way in the world. Out of the blue she decided she wanted bangs and has rocked them ever since. It's fun to get to know more of what she truly likes, dislikes, and aspires to do. One big change in opinion - after further exposure to better Mexican food, Lenora has decided Taco Bell is no longer her favorite restaurant haha. 

We've also seen Lenora grow leaps and bounds with her confidence in gymnastics this year! She is on the pre-team and loving it. Last week she attended her very first competition. She said she wasn't nervous at all, and I believe it. The whole meet she was all smiles. Her energy and attack of each skill were impressive! 

Lenora - we love you so much! We love your silly side, your funny dances, your endless energy, your desire to do good, and your confidence. Happy Birthday sweet girl.