hello, little ones.

eliza, we’ve gotten word that you’ll be starting preschool this fall. this news is as joyous as it is heartbreaking- we’re so excited for this opportunity for you to grow and learn and experience new things and crestfallen that you’ve grown so much and learned so much already that you’re ready to expand beyond the walls of home.

growth never comes from the avoidance of opportunity – we have to seek out that which we want and face the possibility of success and failure. you will do both in your life just like everyone else, and that journey starts here. your autonomy and independence show through every day, eliza. you are your own girl, and will eventually be your own woman, your own professional, your own everything.

i just always wished you’d stay little forever, i guess. i love the person you’re becoming and absolutely am excited for who you develop into; this must be what parents always meant by ‘time flies by’. we’ve gotten to hoard your every laugh, giggle, and exploratory discovery until now. in following my own guidance to you, growth never happens with the avoidance of opportunity and i have to be ok with sharing you with the world.

the world will never deserve you or your brother but you deserve the world and everything beautiful it has to offer.

learning is the single most amazing and essential means to experience the world and expand who you are to come closer to who you want to be. school is the conduit by which we achieve who we want to be – be it college, trade school, apprenticeships, or otherwise. learn all you can, dont limit yourself to anything. we will support you in everything you do that enriches you, your life, and your dreams. i may not always agree on your direction or priorities- i will always respect them.

i was raised in a retroactive ‘i told you so’ sort of way that only guided once the damage had been done. when you come to a crossroads, a crevasse, or roadblock it will be my honor to walk you through, teach you how to manage, or carry you over it. should i do anything to ever damage that please hold me accountable and hold me to my promises.

all i will ever want is the best of everything for you and your brother – the best of who you are forged by the best opportunities provided by our best efforts to raise and guide you. i’ll never pretend to know i know better than you or negate your needs. i very much look forward to valuing your journey, your learning, and your hearts while earning the right to guide you with my actions and words.

we cannot teach or lead without listening; we cannot learn or listen without using our voice and teaching those around us what we need.

love.