Happy 5th bday

To our Kayla

How can 5 years have gone so fast?
I vividly remember sitting in the parking lot of a mexican food restaruant in Blacksburg after going on a 'valentines date' the night before we had you, still deciding what you would be named.

And we decided to name you 'Kaitlyn Amelia' Kaitlyn because it was the one name we agreed on and Amelia for for father's grandmother who meant alot to him.

And after you were born, the name Kaitlyn became Kayla.

I remember how your bother and sister would sing the abc song to you everytime you cried.
your first year.
And once you started walking how much your personality became apparent. You had the world on a string. You'd do almost anything to make your brother and sister laugh.

And so often I'd see a mischievous grin on your face.

The world has been your friend, strangers are simply people you haven't met yet. You strike conversation with anyone and have picked up the 'I like your necklace (or whatever else you notice)' version of flattery to make friends quickly.

Fear is a stranger to you. Roller coasters that make me think twice have you cheering to go again. With a wave you tell me 'bye mommy' to new things but still love to find time to snuggle.

You've found a way to bring out your little brother, coaching him how to talk, walk, play and make friends. I see him becoming more like you every week.

You find the joy, the laughter and the playfulness in life. I have learned many things watching you float through life.

You make the world better for being here. I hope to watch you influence the world for good and for Christ

We love you