LisaNewton, isn't that amazing, that the idea of craft projects as the main event at a birthday party is, in some circles, a thing of the past? You are so sweet to offer sharing the book you mentioned. Thanks! Should I DM you my address? 

jenx67, your story about your daughter, even told in such a brief comment, is so touching and wise! I especially love what you said about watching her and realizing that she is this person you never knew. That's another important reason to give our kids some space—rather projecting our understanding of who they are onto them, we can step back and be surprised by who they really are.

Ronnie Sue, I guess you're allowed to poke fun at me, since I've known you for 25 years! You also provided me with all my farm and "country girl" experiences growing up, for which this town girl is forever grateful. :) We sure had a lot of wonderful, unstructured time and space to roam together, didn't we?