Unbelievably 18.

For Katie's birthday, we met up with her aunt and uncles (Nana was under the weather) at her favorite restaurant, Chuy's.

Happy 18th birthday, Kates! I'd say I can't believe you're 18, but as I watch you take on the world, I know you've already taken many "giant leaps" into adulthood. You have blossomed so much this year, tackling multiple jobs, devoting yourself to your many passions, taking control of your education. On top of all that, you're one of the most compassionate people I know, and dadgummit, are you FUNNY! 

I always griped about my parents driving to Austin to be with me on MY birthday (way back when), but now that I consider the prospect of being hours away from you when YOUR next birthday rolls around, I get a little panicky. After all the Barbie cakes and Mexican dinners, the Chuck E. Cheese visits and playground celebrations, will we really have to mark your 19th long-distance? Ay-yi-yi!

Thank goodness it's not 2016 just yet. I'm planning on soaking up every minute of (what's left of) your senior year before you head for Abilene, Lubbock, or wherever your calling leads you. 

You are one of a kind, dear Katie Bug/Shoogs/P-Did/Gorgeous/Boom Sugardy! I thank God that he picked us to raise you.