XS in Juniors
For the last ten years, I have happily clipped coupons and found online deals for Children’s Place, Gap Kids, Carters, etc. I LOVE shopping for my two girly-girls, and outfitting them in the latest fashions.
As the years have gone by, I have seen them develop their own sense of style and taste. Sometimes I’ve fretted, wondering about my youngest, and if she will end up sporting some gothic styles someday. But for the most part, I can bring home a surprise shirt, or pair of jeans for them, and receive praises and thanks for picking just the right thing. I like having this kind of influence over them.
Recently, my almost 11 year old, went with her dad to pick out some new dress shoes for him. While at the department store, my husband let our daughter go browse the store. My thrifty girl found two shirts for less than $6 each, and talked her dad into buying them. Although I’m sure it took little convincing.
When they arrived home she proudly modeled her new finds for me. I was pleased, but mostly at the delight in her eyes. It wasn’t until later that evening as I was helping her clean up her room that I noticed the tags on these new shirts. To my shock, they weren’t from the Kid’s department, but the Junior’s department.
I didn’t know what to do. How could this be? The Junior’s department? Don’t you have to be at least 16 to shop in that department? The styles are certainly geared for older girls. I wanted to yell at her, and then her dad. But why? Because she’s growing up?
And there it was. I don’t want her to grow up. I love her age right now. I’ve heard the horror stories from brave moms who have gone before me into the teenage years. It’s not pretty.
Tears filled my eyes, then a desperate look to the Heavens, and a whisper: “Please God, keep her pure. Innocent. Help her to love me. Help me to love her—no matter what happens. Help her to know I want the very best for her. Teach her how to lean on you through the trials she will face. Help her to love you. Always, love you.”
