Little sweet Kate is my right hand. She throws so many things in the recycling bin everyday I loose track. She plays with her brother, she helps her sister, she is often ready and willing to help with most anything I ask. I'm grateful for her efforts because I need it. I need her to participate, not be afraid to get her hands dirty. And I really like that about her. This year she has learned so much and it brings me a lot of joy. Today I was asking her what she was going to get Anna for her birthday. Anna overheard and said sunglasses and swords! Kate said, "I want to get her sunglasses.". I said , perfect, you've been saving up your money. She looked horrified and I immediately prepared myself for a conversation about saving and how fun it is to give presents. But she goes on to say, "I wanted to give that money to the school drive for Leukemia". Are you for real blondie? Words can not describe the pride and love I felt for her in that moment. This is the same little girl who used to throw monster fits when I wouldn't let her eat cereal in front of the TV. She's the same little girl I found sleeping underneath her crib the first night I took the side rail off. I remember how she used to look at me before she'd try new things, to make sure I thought it was okay. I hope she still looks to me to see if things are okay, but I guess I need her to find that guidance in herself too. Parenthood is a trip. She had twin day at school today, which I did not know about or plan for. When she got home she told me I was her twin, I melted.
So speaking of seeing. I went to the optometrist today. For the first time in my life I am wearing contact lenses and what a difference it has made. The dr. put the first pair in, then took me out to a desk of sorts that was backed with a mirror. I looked in the mirror and had a pretty emotional response. I saw me. The me I remember, the way I think of myself. I guess I haven't been able to see properly for awhile, because I'd assumed I just looked different now. Well I probably do, but not so much when I can see properly. It was a surprising gift to look in the mirror and recognize the person staring back at you.
8 comments:
awwwwwwwwwwwwwww, kate is such a sweetie!!!!
kate is so awesome. i had a grin the whole time i read this post. and that is such a great shot of you guys.
What a fantastic post! When I first had my babies I didn't think it could get any better. I honestly didn't like kids once they were out of toddlerhood. But man! Once they start learning and doing and achieving things on there own, it's like this magical thing that I can't explain--but you did so well. I love watching my kids learn and grow.
I can't believe you made it 30 years with no glasses or contacts. Consider yourself lucky! Plus, aren't contacts the best?? I mean, if you have to wear anything at all, thank goodness for contacts.
such a great post! kate is great.
Kate has always been an exceptional lady. True love for that girl. I am so glad you can see now! Thank goodness. I actually got eyeglasses the other day, did you know?
I love Miss Kate.
Hi Andrea - We made it home safely and semi-soundly---it was so much fun to see you all last weekend...what a darling family, so glad you could come to Palm Desert...Now we are back to 25 degrees and snow on the ground...Ugh!
that is such a precious picture of you and Kate. I want it. I am going to recommend your blog to everyone. I think you should start getting paid for your thoughts....Love Nancy
Love your Kate and Love you!!! What a sweet and beautiful girl...and glad to that you get to see you again :)
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