Living an Intentional Life
From the moment she was born
to this very day,
my heart grows deeper and deeper more crazy about this girl. Watching who she’s becoming so creative, bright, sharp, and genuinely funny might be the greatest privilege of my life.
I ADORE her as a person not just love her as my kid. My biggest prayer for her is to love Jesus with all of her heart soul mind and strength. I LOVE YOU, Tot.
Apparently, “The phrase “six seven” comes from the song Doot Doot (6 7) by Skrilla (released early 2025) in which the lyrics repeatedly include “6-7”” (from a reputable source)
Then TikTok, Instagram and other social media, especially in edits of basketball players (one being LaMelo Ball, who is 6′7″ tall). (another source!)
But it’s basically a nonsensical expression, with no fixed meaning,
All I know is that:
It’s not a secret code
It’s not a “meh” response
It’s just an in between of this or that and really just nothing
Trends! They really just exist to keep adults clueless and in the dark so our kids can make fun of us since we are “out of the loop.” For me? I’ll think it’s something like this!
Tatum has tried it all over the years : gymnastics, karate, swimming (which she rocks at), ballet, piano (still part of her routine at home), and even guitar. Each one taught her something different: confidence, rhythm, balance, focus. But soccer? Soccer has lit her up in a new way.
There’s something about this game that’s captured her heart. Maybe it’s the teamwork, the energy, the thrill of the chase, or that electric moment when the ball hits the back of the net. Today, she scored a goal!!!! And her team won their first game of the season!
She’s out there determined, focused, and full of life, I can’t help but think how every activity she’s ever tried has led to this moment. Every lesson, every tumble, every song practiced .
She’s at that beautiful age where creativity and courage meet; where she’s learning what she loves, and who she’s becoming. And right now? She’s loving this game.
Tatum is enjoying toys again! She’s completely into LPS’s (Littlest Pet Shop) and wow, (they’re pricey) but we’re slowly building her collection piece by piece. She’s also rediscovered my old childhood treasures: the vintage Fisher Price house and the wooden dollhouse that had been tucked away in storage. Watching her bring new life to them makes my heart so full.
She’s “toying” again: creating, imagining, storytelling. Just when I thought that part of childhood might be fading as she approaches 13, her creativity is blooming in brand-new ways. She even makes her own furniture for her little worlds!
And her bed… it’s a testament to all the things she loves. Stuffies galore: big, small, squishy, fuzzy and especially capybaras. They’re her current obsession, and honestly, they’re adorable.
Her birthday is just one week away, and I’m soaking in every bit of the magic that’s left in her “twelve.” As I write this, she’s out playing a soccer game (Doug just texted that she scored a goal! I can’t help but smile)…(stay tuned for this blog!)
Her creativity, her mind, her energy, her humor, they’re all such gifts. She is delightful. She is bright. She is pure joy to watch grow. (ONE WEEK FROM TODAY she’ll be 13!!)
I RECEIVED THIS TODAY:
On behalf of the entire College of Education, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering commitment to our students, our mission, and our community. Your years of dedicated service have shaped the lives of countless learners and helped build the strong foundation on which the College of Education proudly stands today.
You truly embody the spirit of servant leadership, and we are so grateful to walk alongside you in this meaningful work. As we reflect on your impact, I’m reminded of Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
This year marks your 15th year of service—a remarkable milestone that speaks to your steadfast dedication and influence as a COE faculty member. The Faculty Services department shared your many years of tenure with us, and we want to recognize the depth of your contribution. Your leadership and example have strengthened our COE mission of learning, leading, and serving, leaving a lasting imprint on your students, colleagues, and the field of education.
Thank you for being a pillar of excellence and inspiration within our college community. Below is a badge you can display proudly in your email signature. We celebrate you today and every day!
Grateful.
And Coopy? Needed attention as usual. Look at this face.
Tatum made Ollie a little seed cake.
He loves his MOMMY so much.
Halloween isn’t my favorite holiday, but this year Tatum went all in on the red. Red as in “AAAHHH, what did you puncture?!” She called it “Ghost Face,” but all I could think of was the worst movie from the 90s: Scream.
No thank you. Still, she had a blast trick-or-treating with her little “sisters of mayhem,” so I rolled with it and joined in the spirit literally with “ghost hair.” LOL
It was innocent, fun, and just plain silly. I’m not worried she’s heading to the “dark side.” She just wanted candy and laughter, and honestly, that’s what Halloween should be.
Of course, the night wasn’t over without a little “Switch Witch” twist. When Tatum got home, I was already in bed but she HAD to know how much candy she got. I had her weigh her candy in pounds! She got on the scale, then got back on holding the candy, and I said, “Okay, quick math: how many ounces in a pound?” (Hint: it comes after 15.) Silence. I grinned and said, “I’ll give you fifty cents an ounce. Figure it out!”
She picked her favorites, redeemed the rest, and all was well in Candyland; until she woke up with a tummy ache and had to miss her Saturday soccer game. (no bueno)
Parenting win? I’ll call it a tie.