It has also been five years since we moved here when Cate was starting fifth grade in a brand new school. I still remember her first day of school when she was adamant that she bike to school by herself. We had practiced a dry run on several occasions, but I was sure she would let me take her on on her first day because that had always been our tradition. However, Cate had other ideas.
Somehow, she left me snap a picture of her before she headed out that day, and it still pulls at my heartstrings. A few moments later, she biked away. I am pretty sure I shed more than a few tears as it hit me just how brave my little girl was - a new city and a new school where she knew no one.
Last week, it was a different transition of sorts. Cate got her driver's license! On the day after her birthday (she was off on her actual birthday), she headed out in the morning to the Highlander. It was a cold morning, so first she had to defrost the windows. Once they were defrosted, she drove away all on her own.
Just as I am sure there is no preparation for parenthood, there is certainly no preparation for seeing your kids grow up and spread their wings. However, that is what we pray will happen when we raise them and try to teach them right from wrong and send them off into the world each day.
I could not be more proud of the amazing young woman Cate has become. She is passionate about her sports teams, her school work, and her friendships. She is loyal and kind. She is honest and does not take any shortcuts. She is the best of me and Kathleen without many of our shortcomings.
I am so proud of you my sweet girl, Cate! I will love you until the day I die! I am so lucky to be your dad!
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