Dearest my darling, daughter Kayla,
Wow. What a journey! What a remarkable eighteen years it has been.
I cannot believe how fast they have flown by. In the middle of the afternoon at
2:10 PM on Feb. 5, 1999 you made me a mother. Because I was so sick, the events
of that day are a bit foggy for me. The one thing I do remember was how strong
you were. You shocked all of us, for your arrival was too early, and some expectations
were set for your premature birth. Girlfriend, you exceeded all those
expectations and surprised us all with your strength! You SCREAMED when you
came out. You were pushing and kicking at two pounds. You were a fighter. And
you still are. I knew at that moment that God had a call on your life!
I have seen you overcome many obstacles in your eighteen years.
Not only have you overcome, but you have done so with so much grace. I think of the preemie catch up appointments
you conquered! I think of the physical elements of being premature you fought
through. And I think of the many academic and personal triumphs. I have learned
so much from you, Kayla. Your gentleness and courage inspire me. It has been a
joy to be your mother and raise you. God has been so faithful over these
eighteen years. I have no doubt in my mind that these past experiences will be
a guide to you.
Now you are an official adult! CONGRATS! You now have a new chapter
to write. The canvas is blank, ready to be colored by your God given gifts and
talents. I have no doubt that the decisions you make here in the years to come will
advance you for your future life. You
are so wise, even at eighteen! With much prayer and pondering, I have decided
to make you a list of 18 WORDS OF WISDOM that you can take with you in the
years to come.
1. Let God be your everything!
2. Thank Him for the breath He has
given you and use it to encourage and help others.
3. Cherish your family.
4. Take care of your body.
5. Work hard at what you love doing.
6. Always have financial wisdom! Always!
7. Friendship is about quality, not
quantity.
8. Know what you want- keep your
goals and focus in front of you.
9. Accept and embrace change.
10. Learn from your mistakes!
11. Always be learning and gaining knowledge about this world and yourself.
12. Treat others the way you want to
be treated.
13. Don’t worry too much! It’s a waste
of time!
14. Don’t settle for less in a man
than what you see in your daddy.
15. Nothing good happens past midnight!
16. Take the time to make wise choices
and well thought out decisions.
17. Be okay with being different. J
18. No matter how old, how grown, how successful, know your parents are always there for you.
18. No matter how old, how grown, how successful, know your parents are always there for you.
Happy 18th birthday Kayla Renae! I love you so very
much!
Momma
P.S.
Now you can buy spray paint. LOL
