Just because...

It's been a difficult week for me, with stressors abounding in my personal and professional life. Then, I got word that Cara is moving up to the next class at daycare next week, a little earlier than planned, and it was the tipping point.

I spent yesterday evening hovering on the brink of my emotions, but I also spent some time playing with my sweet girl and enjoying this stage of life. I want to share these pictures, not because they are perfect, but because they are sweet. They make me happy when I start to wander down the stress-path again.

{I picked Cara up from school and was struck by how big she really does look. Then we played in the bathroom with all the things on the counter. She liked to take pictures in the mirror and then ask to see "Tawa".}

{We had a lasagna for dinner that I bought from our church's fundraiser. It was delicious, and it's obvious Cara agreed. After she was finished, she picked up the plate and licked it! We were rolling with laughter. Then you see her mad face when we took the (empty) plate away.}

{And this morning. I often snap pics of her before she and Chance leave. I told her I wanted to take her picture, and she went to this spot on the wall, backed up and stood there. Hooray!!!! Then she wandered away and said, "Cwowwwwn" and climbed in her chair. This happy face makes me burst.}

A friend and I walked into school together this morning, and I vaguely relayed that I was having a crummy week for several reasons. She told me she was sorry and then said, "Sometimes we have to go through these weeks so that we appreciate the good ones." What simple, profound wisdom. The Lord knew I needed to hear some kind words this morning, and I'm thankful for the words and for the friend.

Everything is going to be OK. :)