Caroline's Birthday Party

I went to a birthday party last night where the cake looked kind of like this:

and every single present was Disney princess themed.

And you know what? It was a really fun night.

The party was to celebrate the 4th birthday of a little gal named Caroline. Considering I've known her since she was born, it really freaked me out when I saw her at Church on Sunday and she proudly walked up to me and said "I'm three but I'm turning four on June Eighteent".

Can this kids please stop growing up?

It so was weird to walk into work this morning and make chit chat with my coworkers about the shows we watched the night before. "Oh yeah, I missed part of the voice because I was at a 4 year olds birthday party". Because yeah, that's a total normal thing for a single 25 year old to do.

I wouldn't miss Caroline's birthday party for the world. In fact, I changed plans to be there. She's very special to me.

Caroline is the youngest of six children. When the oldest was in 2nd grade, he had my mom as his teacher. Then she had the 2nd oldest. Then the third. She became very close to the family, and, in turn, so did my dad and I. In spring 2010, Fred, the dad, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Everyone pitched in to help. I served as the babysitter for a few weeks that summer. Caroline was still a baby then. The oldest was only 12. It was a very difficult time for everyone. But that sweet baby was my saving grace. We laughed together, played together, cuddled together. I know now she doesn't remember those days, but I do. And I cherish them.

Fred passed away on September 25th, 2010. The past few years have been a complete whirlwind. I don't know how Martha, the amazing Mama of the family, does it, but I do know how much I admire her. She has six beautiful children, an incredible sense of humor and a very strong faith.

So even though I'm not at the family's house every day anymore or even every month, I love them. And I know I always will. I'll always be here for them when they need me. And as long as they keep inviting me to birthday parties, I'll be attending.

Here's to Caroline's 4th Birthday, may all her Princess wishes come true!

So, sweet Martha, thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your family. And Caroline, Lizzy, CC, Mary, Charlie, and Spencer: Hugs. Always here for you.