Double Digits!!

Dear Katie, 

Today you turn 10!!!  Bring on the double digits (just maybe not the preteen/teenage years).

You -- sweet Katie -- are our reader, swimmer, and crafty creative. I love your wit, kindness, and steady/observant approach to life. While the rest of us are rushing at 90 mph, you are stopping to smell the roses — which means you see the little things we often miss. Some days I don't understand or appreciate your pace.  Even after 10 years, I'm still working on that one.

This year you will be in 5th grade and rule all of Elementary.  This is also a decade where you will distance yourself from us (slowly at first, then oh so fast).  You are an August birthday, and I often think how in a few more Augusts you will leave us for college (we hope).

One of my favorite questions to ask your father is "What do you think she will be when she grows up?"  The answer changes - and we haven't a definite guess yet.  Your answer is almost always "a teacher."  No matter your choice, I think you have an amazing future before you.

You are such a joy, and a kind soul! Your father and I are so thankful for you!!

Happy, Happy Birthday Katie Bug!! 🎉🎂

Baby J Turns 5!

Dear Jenna, 

Today you turn 5!  Such a big number --- 5.  And Big changes come with it this year.  You start Kindergarten in the fall.  No more preschool.  No more half days.  No more Tuesdays and Thursdays, just us together --- for gymnastics, dance, trips to the playground, the pool, the museum ---- or brunch at IHOP, just because we can -- and also, you love pancakes.  Your life now starts to speed up.  And with it I know the years will pass even more quickly than this current hectic pace.


You continue to amaze us!  You have the ability to find joy in the smallest aspects of everyday life - getting a job at preschool, seeing a friend at the store, or simply waking up to find its a warm sunny day.  One of your favorite sayings is "best day ever" - which is uttered almost daily - and pronounced "Best Day Eva", because those "R"s are still a little tricky!

You are kind and encouraging, with compassion and empathy for others which I pray never leaves you.  You are also sassy, full of mischief, exhaustingly independent, fiercely competitive, and LOVE potty humor (please let that be a short phase!).  You talk CONSTANTLY --- from the moment you wake, to the moment you sleep. And this reminds me of your Papa - DAILY!

We asked your preschool teacher recently, "Is Jenna ready for what will come this fall (KINDERGARTEN)?"  Your teacher's response was "Strap a pair of wings on her mama, and just watch her fly."

So, here's to flying at 5!  Just remember, we will continue to be your soft place to land.

Love, and Birthday Wishes!
Mom & Dad