Sometimes I get wordy and might not make a lot of sense. I might ramble on and on about something trying to make a point.

BUT – on that rare occasion, I might actually be serious.

Our oldest daughter turned 18 in March, Graduated High School in June, had her graduation rager in July and left for college in September. She’s had quite a year.

She’s attending Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia. Her mother and I (truth be told, mainly her mother) have raised her to be an explorer. We always wanted her to get get out there and do something, be something, make something or find something.

We don’t know what God has in plan for her. I’m not sure she even knows. The world is open for her.

I wrote this and read it at her graduation party and I waited until she left for college to post it here. I’ve known her for 18 years. It’s going to be hard not having her around.

Words for Kate

I remember that March morning in 2005,

Her mom and I so excited for this new person to arrive;

Girl or Boy, we didn’t know, we were ready for the surprise,

And here she is, all grown and graduated from Cape High.

___________

She came out crying and screaming with a long head of hair,

Now look at her, sitting up here in her chair;

I have a few things to say before she goes off to school,

So bear with me young lady or you’ll be thrown in the pool.

___________

The grass isn’t always greener on the other side of the fence,

Yes, count your dollars, but save all your cents;

Remember to not just judge a book by it’s cover,

And always love your sister, your parents aren’t getting you another.

___________

Time does fly when you’re having fun,

And don’t go out partying until your SCAD work is done;

Always take time to stop and smell a rose,

And sometimes you won’t see the things that are right under your nose.

___________

Everything that happens will happen for a reason,

Something new to our lives comes with every change of season;

Remember all that glitters is not gold,

Be brave, for fortune always favors the bold.

___________

You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make it drink,

Speak up and be heard, let people know what you think;

It’s okay to dream big and have your head in the clouds,

But always be aware around you, especially in big crowds.

___________

Believe your eyes, a picture is worth a thousand words,

Be careful on social media, words are more powerful than swords;

The grass isn’t always greener on the other side,

If you don’t know them – stranger danger – don’t accept a ride.

___________

Be true to who you are and be a good friend,

Always be that person on whom one can depend;

Be kind, be brave – be courageous and strong,

Gracefully accept any praise and don’t be afraid to admit when you’re wrong.

___________

The world is your oyster, go discover and explore,

Keep reaching for the stars and kick down every door;

I’ve loved you your whole life and you’ve helped make my hair grey,

And no matter where you go, I’m but a phone call away.

• Poems
• Seriously