Santa no more

She doesn't believe in Santa anymore. :(

This came as a huge shock to me.  I'd been looking forward to doing elf-on-the-shelf this year and of course all the santa traditions.  When I found out she doesn't believe anymore, I was completely crushed.  I'm just not ready.

She sais "I know Santa isn't real because there is no such thing as flying reindeer."  I tried to respark the  wonder by pointing out that Santa is magic and he can make any reindeer fly - she played along, but in the end, no luck. She did say she wants to still do "all the stuff" and pretend for the fun of it.  That sounds good to me.

I can tell she feels good now that she's "in the know".

She's growing up.

And more beautiful by the day.

She woke up

The first thing she said was "I love you, mom." In her sweet, sleepy morning voice.
Those fleeting moments of tucking her in and waking her up are so special to me.
The other night at bedtime she said:
"Sometimes when you say goodnight and walk away, I cry a little because I miss you."
I told her- "So do I..." But I don't think she understands.
There is just never enough time to compensate for all the love I have.

Monkey hugs

Chloe's been giving the best monkey hugs lately!  She gets herself completely wrapped around and squeezes oh-so hard.  I love every second of it!!  Sometimes she hugs and hugs and says "I just can't get close enough!"  Me either.

Call from the principal

I got a call from Chloe principal just to tell us how wonderful she's doing in school!  She was nominated by her teacher for the call.  At school Chloe is very responsible and considerate and is excelling and really making a positive and lasting impression on everyone.  I'm so proud of her.

Another "reason"

Chloe said:
"Is there another reason for the word (I don't remember the word)"

I know she was asking if there was another meaning for the word- but I couldn't correct her. She messes up so few words these days, I just smile inside and enjoy her little-ness.

Healthy choices

At dinner time, Chloe was excited for seconds of kale. And asked for hemp hearts as an after dinner snack. T feels good when she's excited about healthy food.