You and Me Both, Kiddo.

You and me both, kiddo. We're just here learning how to grow up.
Taking first steps can be scary. Crawling around on the ground is a lot more comfortable. 
As soon as you start walking towards something, you realize all you're leaving behind.
You don't know what's ahead. You don't know who you'll be when you get there.
It's a lot.

But I'm telling you, girl, the sights you'll see from way up high, they'll make life worth living for. 
And once you see them, you'll never go back to crawling on the floor again.

Yet, I promise, you will fall. 
And the impact when you do may hurt less when you're just playing it small, close to the ground, than when you're standing tall. 
But know this: you never fall alone. You have all the love and fire and support behind you, at your tail. 

Your momma loves you wholeheartedly. Trust that she'll give up sleep just to make sure you're okay. 
And when you stumble, she'll always be there to brace your landing.
She’ll brush you off and help you rise up again and give it another shot. 
After all, the point isn't to make it through without falling. 
And know this too–that spot on your dad's lap, curled up in those blankets–that may be one of the safest places you'll ever feel. 

Soak it in, girl. 
Because life is big. 
It can be scary. 
But you have a whole tribe behind you, and no matter what comes, you're going to be okay. More than okay. 

Go show this world what a fiery, German Latina girl can do!
Happy 1st Birthday Catalena <3