An Acorn

Dear Charlotte,

This week you were an acorn. That's right, a small, brown nut. You were so excited about getting your own lines to say for the school musical "Nuts!" You practiced your lines after school while sorting your spelling words for weeks: 

"Hold on squirrel. What's the hurry? We need a chance, you know. 

We just fell off the big oak tree. We need a chance to grow!" 

Then you asked me probably two dozen times, "Are you available to come to my play?" And each time I assured you, "Yes! I wouldn't miss it!"

Do you remember how we rushed to Target to find black leggings and a black t-shirt just days before your show? We were so grateful to be living in America where Target was only 15 minutes away...and of course, we found exactly what we needed!

Here you are in your costume:

Truman and Amelia both thought you looked like a toasted marshmallow. But you and I agreed it was the perfect acorn outfit.

During both performances (one for your school and one for the parents), you stood up at the right time and delivered your lines with expression and complete cuteness. I felt so happy as I watched you sing and dance with your classmates. 

Sometimes I worry that as the youngest, you are too often left behind or made to tag-along to all your siblings' events. I guess that's what made this performance so special. This was all yours! And we all came to cheer you on - even Poppy was here all the way from Seattle. 

This afternoon we walked around the neighborhood. You picked tiny blue flowers that looked like bunches of grapes. You handed me a white puffy dandelion, and together we made a wish and blew the tiny seeds. You held my hand and skipped. You tried to steal Truman's pinecone which he kicked down the street like a soccer ball. And you shared your seat on the large roots of our favorite shade tree.

You are sunshine and joy. When the world gets overwhelming and I feel weary from all my responsibilities and decisions, I find peace in your smile, your big brown eyes, and your generous heart. And my world is righted again.