May 15, 2006
Dear Grace,
Happy 4th Birthday!
This past year has been a terrific one for you given the many new things you’ve tried and the development you’ve experienced. Last summer, during our annual Chicago trip, we went to “Kiddie Land”. I fully expected to hang back with you while Harry and the Sindebar girls went on bigger rides, but no, you wanted, insisted really, that you accompany them on each and every ride. Some rides were height-restricted thus making it impossible for you to join the others. My favorite memory that day occurred on the water ride. Per the usual, Mom was nervous about the rollercoaster’s first plunge, but as we neared the take-off platform, you became more excited! In fact, I chuckled to myself when a girl of apparently five, was too scared to enter the log tunnel from the platform, subsequently demanding her mom escort her off via the stairwell. After witnessing the episode, you weren’t phased one bit; rather you marched right up to the entrance and hopped in our log. Imagine just over three years old, and ready for almost anything! You had such a blast that we went another two times! You’re a courageous girl which is a fantastic trait but please remember to use caution when necessary.
Your enthusiasm to try new things, especially sports, continued this year. You were finally able to start skiing. I say finally because the winter before was disappointing for you when you couldn’t join us for the few days of skiing as a family. Daddy took you the first time, which proved challenging for both parties (especially Dad). He fastened the “leash” and “edgy-wedgies”, but it took more than the first day to get your balance (you tended to fall backwards). But you and Dad persevered and by the time you started Deer Valley Ski School, your balance had greatly improved. Michelle was your teacher for six consecutive Friday afternoons. Based on your progress, we had a few more family ski days but we weren’t always prepared for your meltdowns. As has been the case since you were a baby, you continue to keep up with Harry, but sometimes you get so tired your much younger body simply tires unexpectedly. One afternoon, the four of us were skiing together. We made it to the top of Bonanza when we decided to split up…bad move! Dad and Harry skied ahead and you and I stayed together. Well, not even half way down, you decided you’d had enough. I helped at first by holding your hand, but not being a strong skier myself, I couldn’t support you the rest of the way down. After our skis became tangled and we both fell, you really lost it! What Dad later affectionately termed a “Category (Cat for short) 5” meltdown. Fortunately, a ski patrolman whizzed by us on his snowmobile. I begged him to take you down the mountain to meet Dad and Harry. So completely out of character for me to send you off with a stranger, but the situation called for drastic measures. I admire your determination which I believe can take you many places in life, but please Grace, be mindful and respectful of your body’s limits. Don’t push when you’re overly tired or do more before you’re ready…those scenarios can be the perfect set up for accidents or injuries.
The other sports you tried this past year were dance and gymnastics. You participated in a dance camp last summer and after the two-week session, performed for the parents. You were the only three-year-old brave enough to stand solo in front of an audience. While you kind of enjoyed dance, you really loved gymnastics. Your teacher, Alan, commented more than once on your natural ability to keep your body in form. Gymnastics may be a great sport for you to continue if you like it! Certainly, gymnastics would help maintain flexibility, something Dad and I regret maintaining through our adulthood.
School also became a more important part of your life this year. You began a five, half-day school week which much to my surprise, was no problem for you. You were funny though, about the arrival of the new assistant teacher. For whatever reason, you were quite leery of her at first. To the point that Miss Nina had to bring to my attention that you were hurting the new teacher’s feelings. But your gut instinct was correct as Miss Connie proved to be an inadequate pre-school teacher. Trust your first instinct; it’s usually right! Counting is of great interest as you’ve grasped the relationship between written numerals corresponding to the number of items. You’re just starting to write letters too!
One of the more interesting stories to me this year was the strong impression you made on Janey Mohan. Janey communicates with animals and whether you believe in her ability or not, she has said amazingly uncanny things about Red. Anyway, you were with me one day at the barn while Janey happened to have appointments there too. You walked by her a few times and she later approached me about your ability to understand animals. You certainly seem to love them, especially poor old Nick. You treat animals with kindness. Animals have brought much happiness to me and I hope you share wonderful moments with them too.
I finally completed my screenplay, Sidepass. I’m currently in the re-write phase and on June 1st, we’re required to submit our final draft for the Salt Lake Film Society program. I have no idea if anything will come of my writing, but I’ve enjoyed the process. I wonder if I’ll be writing about writing in your letter next year?
You’ve been remarkably healthy this year. A few colds and one or two stomach viruses, but no major illnesses. I certainly intend on doing my part to keep you healthy, which includes a nightly prayer for both you and your brother.
Remember that I love you always and I’m thankful for you in my life!
Always, Mom
