Cute Vs. Beautiful

This morning we were watching a commercial by Estee Lauder that involves a woman about to get married as a little boy comes in to give the bridal bouquet.  Of course, the bride is drop dead gorgeous and I look over to see Gavin's reaction as his mouth is hung open, practically drooling.  He then says, "she's cute," matter of factly.  I told him that I agreed and asked, "Don't you think she's beautiful?"

This is when he stunned me by his answer...

"No, she's just cute.  The only ones who are beautiful are you and Sophia."  My heart stopped by his response as, of course, my eyes welled up with tears that he would consider us to be the only women in his life worthy of being beautiful.  (I'm sure he also meant to mention all of his grandmothers and aunties in this list too...don't be upset)

I then asked, "What makes them just cute and us beautiful?" He responds with, "You are you." Okay, I'm convinced that I have the most intelligent son in the whole world.  He's already learned the perfect words to share with both his mama and his sister.  I'm in love with him...can't you tell?

Run Away

Yesterday, Sophia came down the stairs with Gavin's backpack on her back, in bare feet, proclaiming that she is leaving home. 

She packed her bag with a blanket and a doll and was adamant that she would be leaving.  I did suggest that she put on some shoes before she took her long journey, which she briefly considered; however, decided that she should worry about packing her baby up for the ride. 

After she put her finishing touches on her traveling gear, I asked to take her picture so that I could remember her always.  I told her that I was so very sad, but asked her to write when she got there. She reluctantly agreed.  This is the photo I snapped before her journey to the center of the earth...or to the dining room.

At the very moment that I took the picture, I realized that I will soon be watching her pack her things for real and head out to the big world for college, marriage, and life beyond.  I'll cherish this moment and be thankful that her trip has been postponed for another 18 or so years.