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Dear Katie,

Our lives changed just over two years ago when you moved into our home the spring of yours and Courtney’s senior year of high school. Three daughters and one grandson seemed to be a “quiver full” to us {Psalm 127}. But God expanded us; our hearts grew.

You took over Cammie’s old bedroom, Sophie’s then future bedroom. And just as quickly as you moved into that room, you moved into our hearts. I look back and marvel at how naturally this took place. Especially since Sophie first insisted that you share a room with Courtney so that she could have her new room made over and finally move in it. You won her over quickly.

Graduation came and you eventually moved your furniture out of that room. You started college and just like a kid who’s left home and went off to college, you came back on the weekends. Albeit, you were only a half hour’s drive away.

For over two years you’ve been our other daughter, Sophie’s other sister. We’re grateful and honored to share you {We know who’s really #1, Christina}.

Katie, I’ve watched you grow since you graduated high school. A seamless transition from my vantage point. You took wings like a butterfly, quietly transcending youth into a beautiful woman.

One day in particular will forever be etched in my mind, my heart. You were here, in the midst of a family meeting. Emotions were high, nerves strained. Then you spoke. You spoke clarity in the midst of confusion and chaos and hurt feelings. Words of love and grace poured out on us. You spoke as one of this family, genuine love. That day, those words of wisdom were marked evidence of the growth and maturity that has taken place in you in such a short time.

I’m in awe. I count it a great honor to share our lives with you, yours with us. You’ve shared our joys and our pains and our peanut butter and jelly. You’re one of us.

And now that you’ve shared a car wreck with Courtney it’s apparent that you might’ve been separated at birth. Because:

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Seriously? Someone even pointed out that your handwriting even matches.

We are knit together. In case you ever question that, remember that these words aren’t spoken by the Joedaddy unless you’re family,

Shut the garage. Lock the door. Set the alarm.

Happiest 20th Birthday EVER, Katie! I love you more than Smucker’s All Natural Peanut Butter and Sugar Free Blackberry Jam. And the beach.

Mama Rena {& Joedaddy too}

You have filled my heart with great joy. ~ Psalm 4:7a NIRV

PS

You know you’ve become one of my extended family when Nana makes you birthday brownies. Don’t tell Courtney when you place your order. Just sayin’. Some sisters aren’t so good with sharing brownies.