Sweet Pea Crew: Carleigh is 7!

Carleigh Grace was born on June 30, 2003. After two awesome boys, it was such a joy to be getting my little girl! But she is little no more! She is now a little lady at 7-years-old! It has been so fun to watch her grow. She was one of the most laid back babies I have ever known (except for her first two weeks of life, when she spent a lot of time screaming at me!) She always had a smile for everyone! When the terrific two's hit, she became a little pistol! She was the true definition of Dr. Dobson's strong-willed child...I never knew a child could cause so much frustration and joy all in an instant. One form of discipline never worked very long with Carleigh...she was too smart for us and figured out the game quickly. Then, a couple of years ago, I read The Five Love Languages at Chris' prompting. We were reading it for each other, but I found that we could apply it to our children as well. Almost instantly, I knew that Carleigh's love language is quality time. She is at her best when we single her out and take her somewhere, even if it is only to the grocery store. I love that when she is having a bad day that I can simply take her aside, do something as simple as read to her, and she is a changed kid! She is becoming a young lady before my eyes. She has grown up so much, and I am so proud of her!

So...yesterday, we celebrated her 7 years with a tea party! It was THE funnest party I have ever thrown! We were blessed by the presence of 17 little girls...yes, 17!...dressed in their cutest dresses. We had lunch, sipped pink lemonade from tea cups, played games, ate cupcakes, and played. It was divine. Carleigh was a shiny happy little lady the entire day! I love how grateful she was for it all, too. A perfect day! Here are a few pictures from the day...

The sweets table