Brooke

She's 14 today.  Taller than this grandma by a good number of inches, she's 14 today.  Performing dance with great poise for 5 or 6 years already, even producing some choreography...she's 14 today. 

How is that possible?  On one hand, Brooke is 14-going-on-20 in all the right ways.  And on the other, I can still picture her at age three, with the most disarming grin, sprinkling a napping grandpa with confetti from head to toe.  That day he was definitely a "decorated" Army veteran, and she was quite proud of her work of art!

For several years, puzzles were a much loved pasttime of hers, and every time we would visit there would be yet another one in progress.  These were not small puzzles!  We adults would take turns pulling up to the table to find a few pieces.  I always wondered if she noticed I was (am) the world's most reluctant, worst puzzler, but she never pointed it out, never teased me, just immensely enjoyed sharing the fun.

Brooke wasn't very old - maybe 8? - when we watched with tears in our eyes as she and her mom put sign language to music before their large church.  The way the crowd responded to her beautiful expressions that day told us we were not the only ones blessed, and no doubt the Lord was pleased more than anyone.

The dance she and her friend put together and gracefully executed for her dad's Air Force retirement ceremony was unbelievably touching.  I've long since forgotten what song was being played in the background, but I will always remember the effect the performance had on all of us fortunate enough to be there that day.  Every movement of Brooke's tender young frame was saying, "I love you, daddy, and this is just for you."

It's such a pleasure seeing this granddaughter grow in grace, inside and out, stretching her soul as well as her limbs.  She's always been a delight and has been ahead of her years in displaying that thoughtful attitude that says "it's not about me".  She truly is a Sweetheart with a sweet heart, and I couldn't be more grateful to God for placing her in my life.  I look forward to many more "ah-h-h" moments as a blessed grandma watching Brooke progress.  And I know I won't be disappointed. 

She's Brooke...and she's 14 today!