Wilson Ramblings: I can't believe she's 18!

Friday, January 23, 2009

I can't believe she's 18!

There will always be people who come into our lives and leave a lasting footprint in our minds and on our hearts... for me, 5 of those people belong to one family. I've known them since the spring of 1991, when they trusted me to care for their most precious gift, their first born daughter, Chelsea. Over the years, they have been SOOOOO much more than "a family I babysat for", rather they've been a second family to me, and their 3 girls, like my little sisters. This is especially true for Chelsea and Craven, the oldest two, because Caroline, the youngest, was born my freshman year of college, and I was already out of town. I spent more time with these girls than any other kids on earth and LOVE them dearly. Not only do the girls mean the world to me, but their parents were instrumental in my life in ways even they don't realize. Ven and Lisa, you guys are amazing and I love you both like parents!

On to the birthday girl... Chelsea! She turns 18 today, and will graduate high school in a few months and then be off to college. I can't tell you how old that makes me feel! She is an amazing gal and has huge impacts on the people who know her. She is incredibly loveable and full of life. I’d love to spend a weekend with her nowadays as “adults” and maybe one day that will happen! She and her parents have known me longer than any of my friends, almost 2 decades. It's hard to believe, but it's true. Chelsea will always hold a huge place in my heart and even though I’m 110 miles away and a decade older, I’d do ANYTHING for this kiddo! Chels, I love you! Happy 18th birthday!

I started babysitting for Chelsea when I was 10 and she was a few months old. I have pictures of that cute baby girl somewhere, but right now I can’t find them, so I stole this one off her facebook page!

Here are some more of my favorites...
1996 - I went to Colorado on a trip with this amazing family and here's Chelsea at 5.

1999 - Keeping all three for a weekend was so much fun! Man they have all grown up so much!

2002 - Chelsea was my "maiden of honor" in our wedding and Craven a beautiful flower girl! Isn't their mom beautiful too! She sang in our wedding and it was fabulous. Lovely Lady!