Twenty One. Crazy!
Twenty-one years ago, Mimi and Cole waved goodbye as Daddy and I pulled out of the driveway to head to Lubbock. It was the day we were going to meet our little girl. I was beginning to be a pro at cars, monsters and dinosaurs, but how would I handle dolls, tea parties and dress up? And, at the same time?!?
We checked in around 7am and things went pretty quick this time around. Because the epidural didn’t take well with Cole, we decided on a spinal block. By 8:36am, we met our sweet Kerri Lee Ann Carleton. 6 lbs 11 oz and 21 inches long. And such a beauty! It was so quick, Mimi missed it because Cole stole her cigarettes and hid in his tent. Now, that was a funny story! Oh, he was a ring tail tooter, but once he saw you, his heart melted. He became your protector instantly. And boy did you enjoy having him wrapped around your little finger. 
It was always an adventure and you definitely kept me on my toes. For every foot in front of me Cole was, you were two feet behind me, lolly gagging around, enjoying the scenery. You were fascinated by people watching, flowers (or weeds), and just stuff. You took everything in. In true fashion, you would “stop and smell the roses.” We all could learn from you. You had such a compassion for people and were so kind, yet you had a sneaky mean streak. You loved to pinch Kadi’s toes to make her cry and then play innocent, blaming Cole. It was amazing to me as lackadaisical as you seemed, you were not. You were such a hard worker, a people pleaser, and always put others first. You were a middle child. And with that came responsibility and hardship to which you handled with grace and beauty. You, my sweet Kerri, are amazing. 
Growing up, teachers always complemented you on your attitude and sweet disposition. I remember in second grade, you would walk into the classroom and say, “this is going to be the best day ever!” And you would make it the best day ever for everyone around you! You worked hard for your grades, in elementary, middle and high school, and mostly recently college! I’m so proud of your attentiveness to your grades and responsibilities. 
The stories always come up about your communication skills. Mimi and Granda being so frustrated because they didn’t know what you were saying, and then Cole to the rescue. “Granda, she wants a cracker!” Your dad called grandpa and was really concerned about you not talking. He said, “son, don’t worry. She will talk when she is ready and then you won’t get her to shut up.” Oh so true. When you are excited about something, boy! You can rattle on and on about it. I love witnessing your excitement about things. 
21 years ago when I first met you and began to have hopes and dreams for you, imagining the kind of toddler, child, teenager, and adult you would be, I didn’t even dream high enough! You have far exceeded all my hopes and dreams. You are such a special young adult and I am so honored and privileged to be your mama. 
I always said I wanted to raise my children to be great decision makers, independent and brave enough to chase your dreams. You, sissy, are destined for greatness! My advice for you at 21 is the same as it was when you graduated — Always believe in yourself, stay true to your heart, be open to new experiences, continue making good choices, forgive others and yourself, chase your dreams, and remember to find treasures in the little things of life! And above all else, remember you are loved!
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