Dear Charlotte,

I've given my wishes for you a lot of thought. I watched and played with you while I visited you a few weeks ago. There were times spent studying rocks and insects together. We read some books while I hugged you. I admire your intelligence and your ability to remain focused. I'd always smile when you'd get frustrated with your sister's antics. You're learning to be patient with her. Learning patience and your ability to remain focused will serve you well.

I purchased a map of Missouri and drew a boundary about an hour out of St. Louis. Someday maybe your grandpa, Uncle Steven, and I will be able to move someplace within that area.

On one of our walks in the wooded area along the Mississippi River as you studied some sort of beetle, I asked what you wanted to do when you got older. You were very serious when you said, "I want to help animals."

I asked, "You want to be a veterinarian?"

You placed your hands on your hips and tilted your head. "Not sure. I know I want to help animals."

I couldn't let that drop, so continued, "Dogs and cats or wild animals in a zoo? Maybe wildlife in forests?

As an amazing five-year-old, you said, "Grandma, I'll let you know when I figure it out. I'm only five." You went back to studying your insect.

Grandma was definitely put in her place. LOL

For now, I'm going to list my wishes for you. I'm sure they'll change as you and I age.

If I had only four wishes, I'd wish:

* that God protects you, and you feel His protection

* that you follow your dreams and know women can be anything they want

* that you never stop praying

and

* that you always know you're loved

My Lesson Learned:
Be confident in yourself to grow into who you were meant to be.