What a cool age! The transition from child to teenager!

What's the best thing about this age?

Seeing them emerge as independent beings

....we're still working on this one ;)

Ditto what "T" said. It's neat to be able to have a semi-adult conversation and that I suddenly see my oldest two (12 and near 11) as 'social company' in the same way that I'd see an adult. In other words I'm no longer attention starved when dh makes it home.

I've also recently sought advice from my oldest on an extended family situation that's pretty sticky. She prayed about it and got back to me a few days later with some really great advice!!!

I love it when I "catch" my 12yo dd "playing". She found a box of Barbies we had put away over a year ago, and she quietly got it out and played with them. I treasured it. With tweens, you treasure those times when they play with their toys because each time may be the last time "sniff, sniff".

My son is 11 and being that he is an only child has always been very mature and caring. However it seems of late he is truly more caring about others situations and feelings. In addition, I love seeing him making the proper choices with his friends and peer pressure!

Alicia

My dd is 10. I do get longings for the baby days sometimes, but I enjoy each new age and seeing her grow. I'm actually have some troubles with her though already. Nothing horrible, but frustrating. I suppose I should save that for a different thread though. ;p

I love that she still wants hugs all the time and I love that she still loves to sit and chat with me all the time and tell me everything. And I am grateful to God she is happy and healthy. We had fun this past weekend doing our nails. I haven't worn nail polish in forever. It sure beat watching Noggin or playing candy land, lol! And she has been having an interest in learning to cook.

It's a great age- watching them grow into these older, more independent creatures.....but watch them still be little kids at the same time. Such a great time.