On the most overcast morning of Labor Day weekend, we enjoyed a nice shaded family hike at the Louisville Nature Preserve. A 1.5 mile loop was the perfect distance for the whole gang. We saw deer, butterflies, caterpillars, and beautiful blooms. The kids enjoyed all the sights while Ryan & I reminisced about our hiking days. It was so nice to slow down and spend some time outdoors. There is joy in simplicity!
Norton Common's Farmer's Market on the last Sunday in August did not disappoint. A sweet walking path complete with upside down pineapple cake, fresh squeezed lemonade, flowers from Mon Ami, scrumptious popsicles, handmade jewelry, spicy bbq, homegrown veggies, and more! The kids loved looking at all of the wonders and window shopping. I loved taking in the labors of love by each vendor and having my mom there to share in the day. We of course all loved our coffee and croissants from Crust & Crumb on the corner. This was a great way to celebrate Adelaide turning 14, to end August, and to continue with our fall bucket traditions!
Dearest Adelaide Jane,
Wow! How are we here and you're 14 years old and in eighth grade?! I look at you and see a beautiful woman… I hardly recognize you as a little girl anymore. But I do cherish those moments when I see the little girl spirit or the innocence in your eyes. Or I hear the little girl giggle laugh when you find something truly joyful.
We spent the day before your birthday making meals and serving them at Franciscan Kitchen. I actually cannot think of a better way to have spent my Saturday morning with you. You were so eager to make the meals, shuck the corn, peel the carrots, dice the carrots and serve desserts. But the beautiful heart of gold you have inside shown so brightly as you greeted every single person in need who came through the door. You said hello. You look them in the eyes and then you gave them the best pastry that they could have.
I know some days you don’t feel beautiful on the outside, no matter how much I reassure you that you are… But the beauty that you resonate through who you are as a person is truly your greatest gift!
Over the last six months, you have put together an amazing fashion show to culminate summer camp at Gilda’s Club. From start to finish, you were out in the community asking for donated outfits, creating the run of show, styling the girls and boys, and MCing the entire event. Your level eight community project was a huge hit for all!
You wrapped up your first 14 & under short course and long course state....proving once again that you work hard and commit to achieving your goals. You also had the opportunity to represent Team Kentucky at zones for the second year in a row. I’m so proud of how hard you continue to work at swimming! You even received Most Improved Swimmer for Senior 2 at the Lakeside Summer Banquet!!
You have done such an amazing job of handling all that comes your way… and I know it’s not easy. However, you do it in a way that is authentically, beautifully you!
My wish for you is that you never let the world harden your heart you, you always continue to smile, and that you always find joy in the smallest of things!
I love you!
Love,
Mommy
