This past weekend, we had a few things going on but nothing too crazy so I suggested to my daughter that we attempt to make one of the desserts from my new Magnolia cookbook she gave me.  Thankfully, she decided to start with a simpler one and we set out to make some chocolate chip cookies.

Since we haven’t baked lately, we decided to refresh some of our ingredients and headed to Trader Joe’s to pick up what we needed.  I loved that she took the initiative to go find most of the ingredients in the store herself while I picked up some of the other items we needed.  She also followed the recipe and prepared the dough herself once we were home.

As I watched and helped her, I was reminded of how often I would be at my grandma’s house on a weekend growing up and we would decide to make cookies with my aunt.  Making them and yes, eating some of the dough, was our favorite part but just spending the time together in the kitchen laughing and working together was what I remember the most.  I loved that my sweet girl and I were able to share a similar memory, especially before she decides she is too cool to hang out with me.

It was also a great reminder that our lives get so busy these days and even when we don’t have things on the schedule, we always have never ending to do lists.  While I could have checked a few things off the list, taking the time to spend with her was far more valuable.  Each day is precious these days as these kids get older.  Embracing every moment and taking advantage of opportunities to spend time together are more important than ever.  No matter what age your kids are, don’t forget to always take that time.