My little girl turned 13 today. Wow~where did that time go???? We went from trips to the park to trips to the mall and from Barbie dolls to digital cameras in what feel like months instead of years. Still, some things never change......she still doesn't like when people sing Happy Birthday to her, still wants to be in the pool as soon as May rolls around, whether its hot or not, still takes the bread off of a corn dog before she eats it and whether or not she'll admit it, she is still a Daddy's girl. My little girl is growing up. Soon we will be shopping for prom dresses and signing her up for drivers education. (sigh) And every day I can't believe how she's grown........almost taller than me, is incredibly beautiful (but fails to see it) has a sense of humor that most people should be jealous of and is thoughtful of others but is not afraid to defend herself when needed. (she can hit like a heavyweight!) So, Kaitlyn, when you read this, know that no matter what you do in life, no matter how bad you think things are, and no matter how old you get, you will always be my little girl, my miracle in life and my greatest achievement. You are a blessing that I certainly never thought I deserved but am so incredibly grateful to have. And I cannot imagine one day of my life without you in it. The past 13 years have been the greatest years written in my book of life and it's all because you're here. I love you, my little Katiebug!!!

Lesson of the Day

what I've learned from a 15 month old.

* Sometimes you need to stop what you are doing and spin in circles. When you stop, you may be or may not be dizzy but you'll definetly see things differently.

* Going down the slide is fun but sometimes the best part is climbing the stairs to get there.

* Coffee can truly be appreciated when sitting on the livingroom floor watching the Wiggles. Yes, dancing is required. (sigh, not really liking the Wiggles)

* If you speak too quiet, people cannot hear you. If you're too loud, they'll just tune you out. Find your voice and be heard.

* A bonk on the head is as good as a kiss on the lips anyday. However, if you are lucky enough to receive both at the same time, consider yourself loved.

* Every child should be allowed to splash in the tub. Just remember: Even the smallest amount of bath water can cover an entire bathroom floor. Don't get mad, get a mop~it probably needed to be cleaned anyway!

* You know when dinner was good if your baby is wearing it. Not so good if the wall is wearing it.