[angelkisses0102]

Last week my baby girl turned 8...how quickly the time has passed. I remember celebrating her first birthday after only being home a few weeks. We had a big party because she was so sick and scheduled for surgery...with an uncertain outcome. She was the tiniest little thing...but even then...she was so happy. She was a very curious, pleasant baby who was already cruising.

Today she still a very happy and pleasant little girl...she has such an old soul...and is so bright...in many different ways. She is a wonderful big sister to her little brother...she is the best daughter a mom and dad could ask for. She is blossoming into such a special girl...with glimpses of the wonderful adult she will become...loving, compassionate, caring, and simply beautiful...inside and out!

And oh boy, is she proud of her new found 'tween-hood'...enjoy every second with your kiddos because the time does just fly right by!

Here's a couple of shots from her Luau...and yes I am still playing with the photo editing!

[MamaChinch]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY A !!!!!!!! Yes, you do have a lovely daughter, she is so beautiful and I am always struck by those gorgeous eyes! Isn't it great to see them becoming good little people? She has good parents to thank for that!
Love the pictures! Good luck with the TWEEN thing! ugh! We are right behind you!

[Drazil]

OMG. 8 years old already! Karen she is beautiful and you can almost see the transition happening (in her mannerisms and in her eyes) toward teendom, yikes! I remember looking at her baby pix when you first brought her home and as she became a toddler, its crazy. Both of your kids look great and happy, your family has come a very long way.

[kretzklan]

Happy birthday princess!

[waitinginnj]

Happy Birthday Ari - We are two months behind ya!

What makes a tween? I wasn't ready to think that yet. I was thinking tweens were like 10, 11, 12? Double digit, but not a teen. Please tell me it isn't so.

[amyfk]

Lovely photos. Your daughter is a beauty! Yes what makes up a tween?
Amy K, NJ

[angelkisses0102]

Thanks everyone!

OK according to DD and wikipedi...tweens are the 8 to 12 'Disney loving' crowd. I also think because DD is going into 3rd grade helps...she is always one of the youngest in her class. The perfect example...what did she want for her b-day this year? Justice gift cards...no toys, no games, nothing we had the nerve to pick out on our own (like the very cool...in my mom opinion...backpack and lunchbox I picked out for her...and returned as well.) She is getting so interested in more 'big girl' things suddenly...like clothes, music, crafty stuff and thankfully NOT boys.


A couple of definitions...

girl ages about 9-14...too old for toys, but too young for boys.

Very easy to market to, will usually follow any fashion trend set for them, will most likely go through the phase of 'finding themselves' as they 'grow up'.

The deference between a preteen and a tween:

Preteen: Someone between the ages of 10 and 13. Simple as that

Tween: Someone between the ages of 8 and 14/15, who in general:
Regularly watches disney channel
Need to follow the lastest trends
Almost exclusevely listens to pop

8-14 year old's. Generally female. Trying desprately to be a teenager but still a child. Spends on average 1-2 billion dollars a year. A product of celebrity influences.

Anyone "'tween" the age of eight and fifteen whom:
1. Watches Disney Channel constantly
2. MUST keep up with latest trends
3. Is/likes Miley Cyrus
4. Likes the Jonas Brothers (hint hint)
5. Constantly listens to pop
6. Drinks Red Bull because the Jonas Brothers are doing so.

[GCS]

Happy birthday to your beautiful girl! I love the black and white photo!