HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KATIE!!!

Today my sweet "biggest" baby turns 9 years old. It is unimaginable to me that I could have a child who is 9 (because some days I feel like a child myself!!!) But, in fact, she is growing up. I have had the pleasure of being her mom for 9 years, and in 9 short years more, she will be grown up and ready to leave my nest. It is half way over, and I cry inside when I think of that! She is the baby that I prayed so hard for, and believe you me, God did not disappoint when he blessed us with Miss Kate Elizabeth. In honor of her big day, I've come up with a list of 9 things that are special about her:

1.) She is the best big sister who ever lived. She will fiercely protect her little sisters. She will comfort them when they are hurt and praise them when they are doing well. I often refer to her as the "other mother." She helps make my job easier.

2.) She is as smart as a tack. She learns new things at warp speed and has a memory that makes me envious.

3.) She is one of the most empathetic people I know. She feels the pain of anyone who is hurting or wronged.

4.) She LOVES animals! In particular, she holds a soft place in her heart for horses and cats (especially the 7 kitties who lie at our house currently!)

5.) She has a MEAN roundhouse kick in karate! She can break a board with her hand AND with her foot.

6.) She is a talented singer, and is brave enough to get up in front of people and perform. She also loves acting (and isn't bad at it, either!) We call her our little "drama queen"!

7.) She loves the Lord. She accepted Christ this past July and hasn't looked back since. She loves to sing about Him and tell others about him when she gets the chance. Her nighttime prayers are sweet and sincere.

8.) She is a hard worker. When she decides to do something, she does it. (Even if it isn't easy.)

9.) She is a true example of a living, breathing, walking answered prayer. She is the best gift I have ever received! She is my sweet, wonderful, perfect beautiful daughter. I LOVE YOU, KATE ELIZABETH!! Happy birthday, sweet girl!