Celebrating Kennedy

Twelve years ago Dano and I graduated from Oklahoma State University. Six weeks later our little family began. Kennedy joined us precisely on her due date and the joy has never ended. Here are some of the things about Kennedy that bring us such joy:

Kennedy is a wonderful sister. We couldn’t have asked for a more loving, caring older sister. I can easily recall her gentleness with each of the children. She was so excited to have a little brother join the family and share a room with her. I remember this little three year old coming in one afternoon telling me she’d just changed her brother’s poopy diaper. She had actually done a really good job! Then, when she had a little sister, she was torn between going to kindergarten and just staying home with Erin. Finally, as Abigail joined our family she has taken on a more young mother-type role. She has loved sharing a room with her, and often a bed, and has completely won her heart. As we prepare to add another sibling, Kennedy has already done the math and it is paining her that she will leave for college when this baby is only six. I know for those six years, she will continue to be a terrific sister and will be able to create a lasting relationship

Kennedy has a passion for learning. If there was a perfect gift for Kennedy it would be a new book. Kennedy is always in the middle of a good book, sometimes two or three (although Mom has tried to get her not to do this…but what do I know? I’m not a super reader myself). She was reciting books when she was not quite three years old. Her dedication to learning is reflected in her academic achievements. Not only are we as parents proud of her accomplishments but happy that they are so self-motivated.

Kennedy is determined. When Kennedy sets her mind to doing something, it gets done…very well. She has always been very good at setting goals and pushing herself to meet her self-imposed deadlines. One thing, unfortunately, that she inherited from her mother is her ability to produce under pressure. The unfortunate part of that is her lack of concern for procrastination. However, this proves beneficial when faced with spontaneity. Coupled with her determination, Kennedy is not easily rattled.

Kennedy loves to dance and sing and play the piano. She has always kept us well entertained. We recently have enjoyed a beautiful piano rendition of “Moon River.”
Kennedy is tender-hearted and kind and compassionate. She is a true friend. She is a girl who will stand up for what she believes, no matter what. She is one who easily laughs and whose laugh is contagious. This spirit of joy can lighten many moments.

We have been asked over the years what our secrets to parenting are to produce a child like Kennedy. We have no secrets. What you see is how Kennedy came. We’ve just been the portal to everything naturally wonderful about Kennedy.