It’s hard to believe, but my daughters are 8 years old!!! Eight feels like such a “big kid” age to me. I had tears in my eyes dropping them off at school yesterday as 8-year-olds. It feels like just yesterday they needed me to hold their hands, walk them right up to the school gate, and give them extra kisses in their palms for later. Now, they hop out of the car (sometimes still asking for those palm kisses) and say, “Bye, Mom!”—not even “Mommy”—just “Mom.”
Yesterday I spent some time looking back at photos and videos from the past eight years, and I just kept thinking: “Wow—time has flown by, and we’ve had so much fun along the way.” So, for my own memories, here are some things about my girls at age 8.
Claire is a kind and loving girl who adores her friends. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to say it. She’s immensely creative with her toys and craft supplies, building entire worlds and advancing storylines that are funny and adventurous. Claire doesn’t give up easily; if she wants to do something, she’s not easily persuaded otherwise. I think this determination is a power that can be harnessed for good.
Claire is also a reader—she loves Ivy and Bean, Ramona, Humphrey, and Magic Tree House. And she’s become an athlete. She looks at her performance in sports, notices where she’s improved, and feels proud of her progress. To me, this shows maturity and a growth mindset—something even adults struggle with. I love her so much.
Riley is an incredibly thoughtful and powerful girl. She’s a top-notch friend, showing empathy and kindness to everyone. She’s powerful because she has very strong feelings—and she’s brave enough to share them. Riley also isn’t afraid of hard work. Whether it’s a craft project she dreams up or a family hike or bike ride, she’s usually up for it.
She loves to write and illustrate her own books filled with funny stories and fantastical creatures. Like her sister, she absolutely loves books. She can tear through a good story on her own but still enjoys reading together, too. Riley is independent—she does her own hair, plans her outfits, makes her snacks, and even heads out for walks or bike rides on her own to observe the world.
She’s also become an athlete. Her hard work and bravery have served her well on the soccer field playing defense, taking up mountain biking, and improving in tennis. I love this girl so much.
To celebrate their birthday, we had a family brunch this past Sunday, and in the evening we hosted a party for their school friends at Wacky Tacky. They are lucky to have such wonderful friends with kind families, and we feel blessed to be part of this community. Our craft closet is now fully replenished with the amazing gifts the girls received—plus plenty of new Harry Potter Lego sets, too. Nobody will be bored at our house anytime soon!
Lyon Family Fun 
They are such wonderful girls! 🩷💜
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