Rights of Passage

Goodness this summer is flying by. The kids have been busy all summer long and I am convinced that as they get older, it only gets worse. My oldest is 11 1/2, she like many her age is in that awkward tween stage. She is caught between girl and young lady. Unfortunately the media and peers are pulling her towards the latter. She wants a cell phone, new camera, to go to friends houses instead of being at home. I can remember this stage, wondering why my mother was plotting against me by not allowing me to wear make-up, or get my ears pierced. There was an appropriate time. "Elizabeth if I let you do it all now-you will have nothing to look forward to." she exclaimed.
Well I have given in, I allowed Anna to shave her legs, she had what I would call light hair on her But for at least 6 months I have heard "Mom look at it-it's gross." and "Its so dark!" So today I had her draw a bath and I taught her how to shave her legs. I made sure to point out to take it slow around the ankles and knees. To be sure to make sure to wet the razor, and to moisturize with lotion afterwards to keep her legs from drying. She was excited and even allowed me the privilege of feeling how silky they were afterwards.
If you are wondering what the right of passage was, it was really not about Anna shaving, it was about me, letting go a little. Allowing her to begin to make some of her own choices and then teaching her the proper way to complete the task. Next will be make-up I guess. I suppose she will seem to young then too. She is a beautiful girl inside and out. I cannot imagine she will ever need make-up. But I know the day is coming. I will take her to the mall, and have an "expert" help us choose the most natural look. She will walk out as proud as a peacock, and I a little prouder of the beautiful girl who is becoming a young lady.