Wow. The time has come. My youngest has turned 18. No more children in the house - just adults. It's amazing how time flies.
18 years ago, a beautiful little full head of hair showed up and took on the name Catherine!
Catherine was and is a lot different than her older sister! And that's not a bad thing. From her first ability to do, she ALWAYS wanted to eat standing. Always. Proof?
And Catherine was always about hats and sunglasses! Or at least her version of "hats"!
And there...that last picture...that was the start of it! Catherine LOVES technology. She should actually think about her career aspirations given her love of technology but she'll figure that one out.
Catherine now is into fashion and will look back at older pictures and say "Dad - why did you let me dress like that?"
The answer is easy - bribery for later in life! :) Actually, it's because Cat is also incredibly stubborn and independent. If I have to deal with "difficulties" in raising children, being stubborn and independent are not so bad as it serves us well later in life.
Catherine has turned into a beautiful young women! She doesn't realize how beautiful she is and I hope someday, looking back, she'll smile as she realizes she's been beautiful the whole damn time! (oh and these pictures remind me - Cat ALWAYS has a little food near the corners of her mouth! LOL)
Catherine has always been about her best friend and sister, Emily and then about her family.
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Fortunately, I've been able to spend alot of time with my girls and we've had plenty of trips and good experiences. Those can't be erased from my memories and I hope Catherine remembers the good times we've had.
Catherine is now 18. She's smart, even though she often doesn't
believe it, she considerate, she's loyal and her friends know this. She has a strong faith and foundation and I thank God everyday for that and I pray everyday it continues to be a source of strength and solace in her life.As Catherine enters "adulting" she's going to learn and experience so much more! I'm happy I've been along with her on her journey and I look forward to be a part of her continued growth. Though, as a parent, we cannot always been as close and present as we want.
Catherine - I love you and I sincerely hope you know how much you are loved and how beautiful, kind, smart and powerful you are and will continue to be! It's been a privilege and a blessing to be your Dad.
Go be the person you want to be and go achieve all the goals you have in front of you!
I love you and Happy 18th!
Dad.
