Always "Daddy's Little Girl"

They say that from the instant he lays eyes on her, a father adores his daughter. Whoever she grows up to be, she is always to him that little girl in pigtails. She makes him feel like Christmas. In exchange, he makes a secret promise not to see the awkwardness of her teenage years, the mistakes she makes or the secrets she keeps.
-Anonymous

I’m not quite sure if dads ever truly realize just how much they impact the lives of their daughters.  I know that in my own life, my dad has been invaluable to me.  He taught me powerful lessons in subtle ways and was always there to support any decision I made.  As I watch Tim and Kennedy, I see so many wonderful times they share; they have the same zest for life and thrill of adventure.  I know that the bond between them is extremely strong yet fragile at the same time.  As she finishes 8^th grade and begins high school, it is more important than ever that they continue to communicate openly and honestly.  Tim must never forget to tell her she is one of the most important parts of his life and she must never forget that her dad will always love her even if he is mad.  It is my job to always remind Tim that no matter where she goes, she will always need her dad! 



Tim and Kennedy at the Parker Triathlon 11/2010




Kennedy and Tim December 2011



Kennedy and Tim PV 5K 4/2011

It’s a Dad Kind of Thing

It’s a dad kind of thing to protect you
And see that the world treats you right,
To offer his willing assistance
Any hour of the day or the night.

It’s a dad kind of thing to stand by you
If one of your bubbles should burst,
To make sure you know you’re important
And know that with him you come first.

To give you his all but still wonder
If there’s something more he could do -
It’s a dad kind of thing to keep showing
That he’ll always be there for you.

Proud Mom!

The 2011 Colorado River Fair is finally over!  When Kennedy began 4H five years ago, the term "fair fun" took on an entirely new meaning.  No longer do I think of fair as rides, corn-dogs, cinnamon rolls and endless fun.  It is now market class, showmanship, ribbons, and long days.  However, watching both Kennedy and Payton during these 14 hour days makes it worth while; once I get caught up on my sleep. 

This year, both of them raised a meat goat and consistently do well with their animals.  Kennedy came in 2nd for market class and 7th in showmanship.  Payton was 5th in market and 6th in showmanship.  Because we can never be content with what we are doing, we are starting a new adventure with the animals and are attempting a goat breeding project.  I'm sure there will be interesting things to post as we head down that path and to top it off, Kennedy is seriously considering raising a steer next year instead of a goat! 

For some, the competition of fair is the most important aspect of the four days.  However, for me, it was watching both kids interact with their peers and other adults.  I was so proud to watch the kindness of Kennedy toward others, the way she is so respectful to the adults and seems to be able to keep things in perspective amazes me.  When parents stopped me and told me that Payton was such a respectful gentleman and so well behaved I'm sure the smile on my face was much too large.  I love them more than they can possibly imagine and look forward to each stage of their lives as they continue to grow into fabulous young adults.

Love her smile!

I'm not sure who Payton was talking to.

Payton and Kennedy in the show ring.