Kara is 3!

Three Years!  Honestly, we thought we had a three year old on our hands about 9 months ago.  Kara has always seemed a bit mature (other than her lack of coordination in which we still cringe every time she starts running because she. will. fall.), and we have to keep reminding ourselves that she is a toddler, not a teenager.  

Her third birthday was much more fun than her second.  Last year we were in the middle of a move, and she kept getting yucky stomach bugs.  This year, she had a gymnastics party with all of her little friends and we made a point of taking her on a special date.

For the date, we all dressed up and went to Downtown Fort Worth.  Kara wore her beautiful gold gown, and she had fun picking out our outfits as well.  I should have stood firm when she chose my extra pointy silver blister-makers, but I had forgotten the torture of those shoes, and my toes are still healing.  Otherwise, it was a fun time for all of us, and I think Kara felt special and loved. 

Lunch at Mi Cocina.

Loving chocolate yogurt with mochi (that's fancy for little sweet bites of Japanese glutinous rice deliciousness).

Strolling through downtown Fort Worth with Daddy.

Riding the escalators at Barnes and Noble after thumbing through wedding magazines.

This is her 3 year old letter:

Dear Kara,

You are 3 years old!  This has been a big year for you.  We have been amazed and challenged as you have grown in independence, knowledge, and truth.  Your confidence and kindness stand out as strong indicators of your character, and we feel these will be great qualities for God to use now and as you get older.  You are beginning to understand the value of trust and you desire to know God.  Your memory is incredible, and we are proud to see you using it to learn God's word.

This year you have most struggled with finding the balance between independence and submission.  We have talked many times about obedience and respect and how it is important to remember that your ways are not better than God's ways.  This is a struggle that every person must deal with, and we will continue to help you in love and discipline.

You are an encouragement to those around you. You care for those who are hurt, and you try to help when people are upset or sad.  We love your compassion.  A verse that reflects that is Proverbs 12:25 -- an anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.  This is a way that you serve others and shine a light for God.

We love you, and we are proud of who you are becoming.

Love, Daddy & Mommy