It’s hard to believe that Kathryn is 16 tomorrow. The time has flown by. Doesn’t seem that long ago that we were at Georgetown Hospital waiting for Coco, the name her sister suggested for the baby and the one we used the whole time I was pregnant, to be born. Kathryn arrived in the world in the midst of a strange winter thunderstorm. Like the wild lightening that night, she’s lit up our world for the last 16 years.

Lots has changed over the last 16 years –

The Wiggles concert and other local favorites are now One Direction and Ed Sheeran events.

The child who thought her motorized Barbie car went too fast, is learning to drive.

Outings to play at Froggie Land at the mall are now shopping trips designed to spend my money.

The Elmo phone has been replaced with an IPhone.

I said tonight at dinner that I remember when she was sweet. She responded “Yesterday?” Yeah, right.

Some days I’m amazed at who she’s become. Guess I’m not as bad of an influence as I thought! Actually, it’s probably more of Mike’s influence that she’s a decent person. Who am I kidding? Not too long ago for a baby shower, we were all asked to give some words of wisdom. Today I thought about what I wrote, as I reminisced about the “old days” and thought about the all that’s happened over these year. It struck me that the ideas hold true for newborns or those about to be new drivers:.

1. Don’t let squabbles with friends and family prevent your child from having a relationship with them. No child can have too many people who love and care for them.
2. Whether advice is given to you from a stranger in the store or someone you know, remember it almost always comes from a good place. Take and use what you can and ignore the rest.
3. Some days the best you can do is have everyone dressed and fed. Don’t sweat it.
4. If people offer you help, take it. No shame in accepting a helping hand. Might be a dinner when you bring home the baby or a ride for your child later. Don’t be a martyr, accept the offer.
5. Every kid is different. Stop worrying and comparing and just enjoy them for who they are.

Today and every day,  I’m thankful the smart, sassy and yes, sweet daughter of mine. The one who loves animals, wants to drive a VW hippie van, is the family historian and the one who shares my sense of humor – Happy Birthday Kathryn!