Your Next Adventure

Written: May 2015

Caylee,

When you look at what you’ve accomplished, you should be very proud.

As a student, you’ve continually been on the honor roll and your teachers have always commented on how you’ve been a pleasure to have in class. Your honor society inclusion and Kairos leadership are perfect examples of your accomplishments.

As a volunteer, you’ve selflessly given your time to many organizations and have given a real and sincere effort when in these situations.

As a dancer, you were always prepared and did wonderfully on the stage. Your performance always brought tears to my eyes.

As a soccer player, you showed dedication to your teams whether you were a part-time player or the captain. Coaching or watching you was always a highlight of my days.

As a Crossfit athlete, you have continued to amaze. It is a rare teenager who can be as self-motivated as you’ve been to train as hard and as consistently as you have done.

Through the years, you have made countless friends and have a wide circle of people who love and appreciate you. Everyone wants to be your friend because they know you’re a special person.

You’ve always been a wonderful daughter, granddaughter, niece and cousin. You give special time and attention to those that love you and you love them in return. You have truly been a ‘star’ that has brightened our lives.

As you prepare for your college years, you know that it will be both an amazing experience and also a time of transformation. It’s a wonderful opportunity but will include many new responsibilities.

While we’ll always be here for you, there will be nobody to poke you out of bed in the morning. Nobody will be there to pick-up, wash or iron your clothes. Nobody will prod you to get to class on time, to do your assignments or ask if you need assistance with you studies. How you manage your day-to-day life will determine whether this amazing opportunity blossoms or wilts.

As you finish out this school year and prepare for the start of your college career, you will benefit by beginning to establish the habits you’ll need to succeed. Prioritizing and focusing your efforts will allow you to succeed and have the full college experience that you’ve dreamed of.

As noted in above, you are talented, dedicated and smart. Your accomplishments speak for themselves. You have the ability and this is simply part of the next stage in your life. I believe that it will be awesome.

I love you — Dad