Dear Katelyn,

Thirteen years ago we had a new baby girl that was destined to wear pink for at least one full year. I know that's not one of your favorite colors anymore... I'm guessing I probably ruined it for you (that and frilly dresses and hair bows and lacey socks). I would apologize, but it's hard to be sorry for something that was so much fun.

Actually, you and I have had a lot of fun times. I use to rock you and sing things like Bye-O Baby and You Are So Beautiful. You would play in the kitchen while I cooked and dig out every measuring cup and wooden spoon and bowl you could find. Maybe that's why you still enjoy the kitchen today. You've spent a lot of time in there.

Grandma Faye had you using a quilting needle when you were two and sewing on a machine by the time you were three. I'll never forget the time I picked you up from her house and your little finger was all needle-pricked... somehow you hadn't quite mastered the thimble yet, I think. Even today, if someone in the family needs something mended, they go to you.

Grandma taught you about canning and making grape jelly. I don't think there was much she wouldn't let you try. In fact, I'm pretty sure she was your first best friend. If we have done anything right in our life, it was raising you kids in a place where her house was just a walk away. I am so thankful she was a part of your first nine and a half years (and don't even get me started on Granny). You are one lucky girl.

So now you're thirteen and things like Barbies and American Girls and Big Baby are nothing more than a part of your memories of childhood. All you talk about now is i-pods and cell phones and laptops (and sorry... the answer is still no on all three of them). Don't fret, my dear, you've got a whole life ahead of you to gain access to all those techno marvels. There are just too many things in this world to compete for your attention. For now...

Enjoy your books.
Learn to relax.
Love your kitten.

Oh, and feel free to bake. Often.

Your dad and I are very happy with the young woman you are becoming. Your grandma would be thrilled. Yes, you're gonna have struggles, but that's just part of it. You've already overcome a lot in your young life; you'll think back on those times when things get hard. And remember everything your old mom has taught you:

God is all powerful.
Jesus will forgive.
You have a purpose.

And Starbucks makes the world go round.

With much love to you,

Your MOM
(not your friend, buddy, or pal, but ALWAYS your biggest fan)

P.S. Dad just read this and reminded me of the time you asked if you could call Grandma "Mom." I can still see her giggling when she told me that (even if I did NOT think it was funny at the time). Ha!