A Letter to Kalista

Dear Kalista,

I remember years ago I thought once school-age came around I would be less busy. Oh was I wrong! I have come to realize the older you and Sophia get, the busier my life becomes. The responsibilities start to pile up. Different responsibilities than the nurturing kind of taking care of young children. School work, volunteering, soccer, ballet, gymnastics, and swimming have made our family life a tad bit hectic. But the joy I see on your faces makes all the scheduling and chauffeuring worth it. I wouldn't change a thing.

A huge chapter of your life is beginning. You have been my buddy, my pal, my sidekick for so long and it is hard to imagine not having you by my side. In some ways, I am losing my best friend.

When your sister started her journey, I was okay because I still had you to keep me company. But now that it is your turn, well, I find myself at a loss. I truly wish I could turn back time. I have been telling Daddy that I didn't think you were ready, that we were making a mistake, that you are just too young. I guess the truth is, I am not ready to start turning the pages in your book.

Although I am sad as I write this, I am also excited to watch you discover your talents, your dreams, your life. A whole new world is waiting for you. 

Sweet, sweet Kalista . . .

Always remember how much I love you and how proud I am to be your mommy.