Looking Back

I was once that kid with the ice cream stained face. The kid who didn't have a care in the world. The kid who didn't care what people thought of her, only cared about the friends she was with and what they thought. The kid who loved water and sang, even if she wasn't a very good singer. The kid who would "chill" with the family, share stories, and roast marshmallows until they were black then realize she didn't like them that way! I was the child who went to church with my grandpa and sat down front when other people didn't care to come along and join. And now they regret it even more because he's gone and they don't have a chance to do it again.
I've now grown up to be a teen. I've been planted in good dirt and have great roots. They're strong and not breakable. Not even earthquakes or gardeners can dig this bright beauty up! My dad and some of my family have given me great things to grow up on: memories I won't forget and wouldn't even if I had a chance to. I won't forget the promises I made, the times I spent with each one of them and the places we went and the adventures we had.
I'm going to say right now, I'm not the best kid out there. I don't do everything I'm asked to do. I do try to make the best things count in my life though. So, yes, I was that kid that had ice cream all around her face. I was that child who fell asleep in the birthday cake. Those times I won't forget and the people that were there won't either. When people ask me is there anything you regret in you childhood, I reply with a grin and say, "Not a thing. It made me strong and who I am right now." It may have been a bumpy ride and it sure wasn't easy for me, but it made me stronger than anyone could ever believe. I'm glad my cards fell this way because I won't be one of those weak kids in life. I will be able to do it alone. I was nurtured, I was given the right tools, and now I'm going to grow up and make a great beautiful garden of my own someday!