November Letters

Dear November,
I can't believe you are already here.  You bring the beginning of the holidays which I am so excited about.  We are staying put this year for the festivities, which I of course have mixed emotions about.  Let's make it a good one!

Dear Election,
You have torn my heart apart, as well as divided this country.  I am not excited about either candidate.  I'm still waiting to wake up and have it all be a joke.  How did it come to this?  Can America have a re-do?

Dear Girls Trip,
Oh hooray!  Gwen and I are excited to spend some quality time with my mom, aunts, and cousins.  We will be crafting it up, laughing, and chatting for days and days.  Hopefully our plane rides are uneventful.  I'm pretty sure they will be... Gwen's a champ.

Dear Thanksgiving,
I love you more and more every year.  You are a wonderful reminder about the importance of cultivating gratitude as a practice in our lives.  Becoming more thankful has been a game changer for me.  You can shift your whole life by recognizing the tiny miracles its made of. 

Dear Traditions,
I look forward to you around the calendar, but even more so this month and next.  Pumpkin waffles, thankful trees, movies, and festive treats.  And now we have Gwen to share them with!!  What a magical time of year!

Xoxo, Katie

October Letters

Dear October,
I can't believe you are here.  I am excited for your pumpkins, amazing leaves, and sweater weather.  What a lovely time of year?!! 

Dear Summer Wardrobe,
I don't know what it is about you... but I am so excited to part ways for the next 9 months.  I think you need a major revamp, because I just get so sick of you. So move over Summer Wardrobe! And let's instead welcome boots, sweaters, and beanies!

Dear Gwen,
We found out a year ago this month that you were possibly coming to join our family.  We prayed and prayed that you would make it safely.  And now you are here and bringing all sorts of happiness and delight to us day after day.  I love you so much my little one!

Dear Vermont,
I am more in love you now than ever.  I feel like you are helping me become more myself as I play in your mountains.  I feel so alive while hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.  It all just makes me so happy.  I feel like I could stay here forever.

Dear Private Practice,
You are becoming what I have always dreamed of.  I can't believe you are my reality and I feel so blessed and lucky to have you.  I love the work I do and that feeling swells within me every time I leave my office.  It just feels so right for me.  I also love only working a day and half and playing with Gwen the other days.  What a perfect thing we have going!

Dear Mother Nature,
You know I am in awe of you... and I really feel like I must express my gratitude over and over.  You are amazing.  You are cleansing.  You are beautiful.  You are liberating.  You are inspiring.  You are my favorite.  You are just what I need.  Thank you for being so generous and kind.  Keep doing your thing, because you are doing a wonderful work. 

Xoxo, Katie

September Letters

Dear September,
You are my birthday month.  You are my favorite!  Enough said.

Xoxo, Katie

August Letters

Dear August,
I have mixed feelings about your arrival.  The summer is going too fast which makes me want to stop time immediately.  But also I am going to see my family for the entire 2nd half of August, so that makes me soooo excited.  You also have one of the greatest meteor showers of the year... so I will get to see some shooting stars soon.

Dear Body,
You are incredible.  I just can't believe the miracles you offer.  You made a baby (with a little help from Jeremy), birthed a baby (naturally even), and now you are providing all of the nourishment that baby needs.  Seriously, so cool. And extraordinarily beautiful.  I am in awe. 

Dear Half Marathon,
You were nixed my doctor.  For some reason, she thought a half marathon 3 months post-partum was a terrible idea. We compromised on the 5k.  So maybe I will run you next year, maybe not.  I'm thinking I would rather focus on getting better times for shorter races.  I'm sure my knees would appreciate it, too.

Dear Sun Valley,
I will be road tripping it with my family to you in a couple weeks.  I am so excited to come visit you. I haven't seen you for many years and I have fond memories visiting you when I was a little tyke.  And not so fond memories - geese chasing me after I threw rocks at them when I was three.  I was terrified.  Anyways, there will be lots of bike riding, which is bound to be a treat. 

Dear Meteor Shower,
You are one of my favorite things about August and this year your show is supposed to be even grander than usual.  I guess there is some sort of "outburst" this year which means even more shooting stars - up to 200 per hour!  I can't wait.  How amazing is nature?!  I just love it. 

Dear Olympics,
I am a big fan.  I'm looking forward to the soccer, gymnastics, swimming, and beach volleyball.  You always inspire me to be more patriotic.  I come away from these amazing games with so much appreciation for hard work and dedication.  I love to hear the incredible life stories of those that compete.  What a great couple of weeks it will be.

Xoxo, Katie

July Letters

Dear July,
I just love everything you stand for: fireworks, popsicles, lots of sun, late sunsets... I could go on and on. You are the epitome of summer, and summer means that fun things are happening.  I love the bbqs with friends and the late night ventures to the nearest ice cream shop.  I'm just really glad you're here.

Dear Motherhood,
You are waaaay better than I thought you would be.  I feel like when people talk about you, they typically lead off with talking about how hard and miserable it can be, and then they add "but its totally worth it."  I guess I would describe you differently - starting with how amazing and magical you are with a touch of messy.  The thing is that mothers are always learning, and learning is definitely messy business.

Dear Gwen,
I just can't believe how much I love you.  I get to be your momma and that we get to have endless adventures together, which makes me so happy.  I am soaking up this newborn version of you because I know... babies don't keep.  Thank you for being patient with a girl that is growing into this new role of mom. 

Dear Sleep,
You aren't as elusive as I thought you would be with a 2 week old.  My little Gwen is a champion sleeper and I am finding that I am feeling quite rested.  It has been a lovely surprise compared to what people had warned me about.  I am feeling rather blessed!  So glad we are still on good terms.

Dear Half Marathon,
You are kind of looming over me, even though you aren't happening until mid-September.  I think it's because I'm not supposed to exercise for some time and I am just anxious to get started on the training.  I will not be setting any records and will likely walk a bunch of the course.  I'm sure I will need some friendly reminders that my goal is to finish... simply finish the race.

Xoxo, Katie

June Letters

Dear June,
You are one of my favorite months, mostly because the weather is really getting delightful and I know there are many more delightful days to come.  You also house the 1st day of summer which is one of my favorite days.  It's also a pretty big month for us since we are officially in the month that Baby Clover is due to arrive!!

Dear Vermont,
You are killing it lately!  Everything is full on green now and it's just incredible.  I am back in the woods hiking with friends or by myself almost two to three times a week.  I love it.  I just love being outside.  I am getting excited for the outdoor adventures that we are going to have all summer long!

Dear Charcoal Grill,
We love you.  We really do.  I don't know what it is about you.  It's not that you make dinner prep any shorter or anything, but for some reason it feels that way.  Probably because Jeremy takes on the grilling duties in our home while I throw together the sides.  And then we sit on our back deck and chat and eat and enjoy our woods.  It's calming and wonderful.  Again, we love you!

Dear Body,
I know I have said it before and I will say it over and over, you are incredible.  Thank you for doing so many cool things.  You are building and supporting life and all the while you allow me to have so much fun in nature.  I am nervous about the post partum version of you.  Jeremy pointed out that I was nervous about the pregnant version of you as well, which turned out to be so beautiful to me.  So I am working on embracing, appreciating, and being kind to you on our journey together no matter what comes.  Thank you for being so amazing!

Dear Baby Clover,
We get to meet you soooooo soon.  I am getting more and more excited to have you on the outside, especially with this abnormally hot weather we have been having.  It's been a really HOT few days, so I have been hydrating like it's my job.  I can tell that it is getting really crowded in there.  Sometimes it feels like your movements will cause my belly to burst and you will just be sitting on my lap - please don't do that though. Just know, good things are coming little one, good things.

Dear Furry Brown Cows,
I see you whenever we head north and I think you are about the coolest thing.  There are five of you, I think, and you're either barely visible hanging out by the trees or your somewhere in the field basking in the sun.  Also, you might want to lose the furry coat with the summer ahead of us - because that just might be unbearable.

Xoxo, Katie

May Letters

Dear May,
If this baby comes according to plan (set to arrive June 13th), then this is my last month being childless.  That's a pretty weird thought.  I will soak up all of these diaper-less days because we know there are so many diapers in our future.  May, I look forward to your flowers and blooming trees. They are slowly on their way and I am loving it.

Dear Mother's Day,
I have always celebrated you especially after I got married and convinced Jeremy that we should celebrate our potential motherhood and fatherhood. Mostly because I wanted presents, it's my love language after all.  This year feels a little different since I am actually expecting a baby this time around, rather than reflecting on my awesome womanly qualities.  I love that there is a day set aside to appreciate the woman in our lives and the amazing things they do.  Also, it's a great excuse to have Jeremy grill up a giant steak for me next Sunday!

Dear Baby Clover,
I am getting less scared and more excited for your arrival.  I just can't wait to meet you.  I can't wait to take you on beautiful walks in these mountains.  I can't wait to sing to you.  I can't wait to take a million pictures of you as you sleep.  I can't wait to get to know you.  We have a lot of learning ahead of us.  I have never been a mother before and you have never been a baby before... don't worry, we will figure it out together.  In the meantime, keep rolling around in there, because it is just about the coolest thing!

Dear Early Morning Seminary,
You come to a close at the end of this month.  I have really enjoyed having these great kids over every weekday morning to study the Old Testament together.  We are trudging along and memorizing scripture masteries along on the way.  I know that we are all really excited to sleep in soon.  I know I am really looking forward to not setting my 5:40 alarm.  Twenty more days... we totally got this!

Dear Sam's Club,
We just got a membership and I am so excited to go back to buying things in bulk.  We discovered that we go to Albany quite a bit, since it's only an hour away and they have so much more civilization than we do in Vermont.  So we are coming for you Sam's Club!

Dear Jeremy,
I am feeling more in love with you than ever.  I am just so happy.  Happy that we are living out our dreams.  Happy that we love spending time together.  Happy that we get to do this parenthood thing together.  Happy that you are so dang handsome.  Happy that you talk to the baby and tell it to come out and play.  Happy that we found each other 8.5 years ago.  Happy that you are my best friend.  Happy that you are so wonderful, supportive, loving, and funny.  I am just so happy.  I love you.  Forever.  And ever.

Xoxo, Katie

April Letters

Dear April,
Aw, April, welcome.  I can't believe you are here already. You bring all sorts of beautiful transformations: the golden fields turn green, the rivers rise with enthusiasm, the trees bud and blossom, the woodland creatures come out to play.  I am looking forward to everything you have to offer.  Warmer days, sunny days, rainy days, hopefully with some rainbows in between.

Dear Babymoon,
You are fast approaching! Hollywood, Florida here we come... well, in 12 short days. We hear you have a great boardwalk and beautiful beaches.  I am most interested in sitting on the sandy beach chatting with Jeremy and reading a good book - The Nightingale.  I also plan to sporadically run to the ocean and jump into those salty waves.  Which reminds me... I need to be sure to pack a frisbee in case I get antsy to run around. 

Dear New Lambs,
I see you frolicking in your pasture as I head up to work some days.  There are about five or six of you, some grey, a few white, and one or two black.  Today I saw you literally running and jumping about together as we drove past.  You are the cutest little things and make me want to start some sort of farm, but only have baby animals.  Maybe visiting a farm would be a more rational choice. 

Dear Mom,
You are coming to Vermont towards the end of this month! I am so excited for so many reasons.  First, I get to see you!  Second, you get to see Vermont!  Third, I get to see you!  Hooray.  I am totally counting down the days.  See you so sooooon!

Dear Body,
You are amazing.  You are supporting two beating hearts right now, eight limbs, two brains, four lungs... I could go on and on. You are completely self-sufficient. You are embarking on this journey without instruction or practice. You are doing what you do best, tapping into Mother Nature and letting her be your guide.  You are full of wisdom and bravery and I will do my best to honor you. Carry on in this incredible work. 

Xoxo, Katie

March Letters

Dear March,
What a lovely month you are?  To me, you signify that spring will be creeping upon us soon and that is really exciting.  You bring the hope of warmth, for which I thank you.  You also house some special birthdays this month (Jeremy and my mom), which means I have to get serious about buying gifts.  Welcome March, stay a while and bring some sunshine with you.

Dear Winter,
You were kind of a bust.  We got a few small storms out of you this time, but nothing spectacular.  A month ago I was wishing for more snow, but now I feel like we might as well cut our losses and move on.  You can just go into your own hibernation, while the rest of gear up for sunshine and barbecues.  I do appreciate you, I am just hoping for a better show next time.

Dear Pi Day,
I always look forward to you.  Why not have a day dedicated to celebrating both math and pie?  Last year's celebration was pretty epic.  Hopefully I can get my act together and have some friends over for pie and math games.

Dear Work Life,
You are about to ramp up again after 10 weeks of working 3 days a week, which have been so so lovely.  Bennington College is about to start their term and I am hoping I can keep up.  The bigger paychecks will be top notch, especially with our growing list of things to buy to prep for the baby.

Dear Pregnancy,
I am loving this.  Being pregnant is pretty amazing.  My body is pretty amazing.  It is creating all sorts of organs and body parts which is just crazy to me.  Even considering the injections I have to give myself every day, I am really loving this experience.  I feel like I want to keep having kid after kid, which may change after the delivery experience.  Glad we still have some time!

Dear Easter,
You are early this year!  I am trying not to let you sneak up on us.  I am so excited to dye some eggs and eat lots of candy.  I am also excited to focus on the Savior and His resurrection.  I love this time of year.  There is so much hope and love in the air.

Xoxo, Katie

February Letters

Dear February,
Hello there.  You come bearing lots of love, even more so for Jeremy and I.  We have our wedding anniversary on the 13th and then Valentine's Day on the 14th.  I always look forward to you and dreaming how we will celebrate all of the love you bring.  I'm thinking some chocolate fondue will be in order.

Dear Anniversary,
Hooray for 7 blissful years of marriage! Hooray for growing older with your best friend! Hooray for presents in the middle of February! There is a lot to celebrate and be happy about this time of the year.  I love that you fall on a Saturday this year and we can dedicate the whole day to celebrating US!  I just love celebrations!

Dear February 29th,
How cool are you?  You only come around every 4 years and I love it every time.  We get a whole extra day this year thanks to you.  What will I do with it you ask?  Well, it's a Monday, so I will probably just go to work.  I will definitely write the date as much as possible though to try and keep it fun.

Dear Weather,
You are all over the place these days.  We have a few days of snow and then we have a few days of sunshine and 50 degrees.  I went snowshoeing one day and running in the sun (and mud - let's be real here) just a few days later.  I find that whatever weather we are having, I want more of it.  I either want crazy amounts of snow or if I can't have that, then let's just bring on spring.

Dear Baby Clover,
We got more pictures of you last week at our ultrasound.  We have officially decided to wait until you arrive to find out if you are a boy or a girl and your dad is just thrilled about that, along with the grandparents to be.  They will survive I'm pretty sure.  I'm busy dreaming up all of the stuff we need to buy for your arrival and researching baby names.  This is so fun!

Xoxo, Katie

January Letters

Dear January,
Well, hello my friend.  I sure hope you have more snow in store for us than December had.  I am hoping for loads and loads of snow so we can get out there to play with our winter toys.  I dream of snow shoeing and cross country skiing every weekend for the next three months.  Doesn't that sound like a great idea?  Let's bring on that snow!

Dear 2016,
Welcome!!  Now that I have accepted that 2015 is officially over, I am pleased as punch that you have arrived.  You are the year that will likely bring the biggest change to our lives... ever.  You see, we are adding our first little one to our family in June and I'm sure our lives will be turned upside down.  There are many great times ahead and I will try to soak in every moment. 

Dear Passion Planner,
I finally purchased the compact planner for 2016 after finding you a year ago and now I am anxiously awaiting it's arrival (please come fast!!).  In the meantime I am using the free weekly printouts and I love everything about it already.  I am excited to be more intentional with how I spend my time, more focused on my goals this year, and the size is perfect for taking everywhere.  I think I may need to buy some new pens or maybe highlighters to celebrate!

Dear Seminary,
Well, this Christmas break sure has been lovely.  Two whole weeks off from the 5:40 alarm clock has been amazing.  I hope I can get back into the groove next week... I am a little worried.  I will have to start going to bed earlier and making sure I pencil in the time to prep those lessons.  The kids are great though and we have a good time even if we are all dog tired.  I'm sure we will be alright.

Dear Baby Clover,
I am now 16 weeks along and you are the size of an avocado.  You are looking less like an alien and more like a baby which we are very happy about.  You can now hear us (at least that's what the internet says) so we are trying to be on our best behavior and only say nice things to each other.  Don't worry, it isn't that hard when your daddy is so wonderful.  Hopefully, I will feel you moving and grooving in there soon.  Keep growing!

Dear Goals,
I feel I accomplished quite a bit in 2015, so I think I will take a year off from setting goals.  Ha, just teasing... sort of.  I do feel like I met some of my major life goals this last year, so I think I will make smaller and less serious goals.  Life is meant to be enjoyed after all.  I am still thinking it all out; I don't like to be completely flippant about this process.

Dear Blog,
I am sorry I have kind of ignored you the past few months.  I am been pretty exhausted by the whole 1st trimester and teaching seminary thing.  Not a whole lot happened anyways, except for lots of time spent laying on my couch.  I have more energy now that I am in the 2nd trimester of this blessed pregnancy, so I have great intentions about writing more.  We will see how that goes.  Thank you for always being there. 

Xoxo, Katie

December Letters (late!!)

Dear Santa,
I have been really good this year.  I have been working hard.  I have been nice to my friends and even nice to strangers.  Also I am growing a baby this year, which is pretty important work.  I would love some awesome presents from you.  I promise to spread all sorts of Christmas cheer to those around me.  It's such a lovely time of year. 

Dear Snow,
You are feeling ever elusive with the temperatures we have had lately.  The 40s and 50s have been nice, but I feel like it is really your time to shine.  We all know that the Northern Hemisphere has some pretty big expectations about the magic of a White Christmas.  You have got to get it in gear, my friend!  Let's agree to meet and play soon, okay? 

Dear Hot Chocolate,
Oh you're my favorite.  Thanks for always being around to warm my soul.  You are a true friend that always has it in mind to teach me some much needed patience, so maybe someday I won't burn my tongue.  I love how we take our experience together so seriously - whipping cream is always needed with either a dash of cinnamon or some chocolate syrup to boost that fancy factor.  Just dreamy!

Dear Jesus,
You are the reason this time of year is filled with an abundance (if that's possible) of love, service, and all around good cheer.  We are celebrating you.  Your birth, your life, your teachings, your example.  There is so much for us to learn.  You are ever-willing to comfort and strengthen us.  Please help us to remember in time of doubt that you are our Savior!  Thank you for being patient with us.  Thank you for rooting for us. 

Dear Baby,
Your sex is currently unknown. I was set on not finding out until you arrive and recently I find myself wavering and wanting to know right now.  How am I supposed to wait 6 months!?  So your father might end up winning this won.  We will have to see, either way will be pure magic anyway, so nobody really loses.  Keep up the good work in there.  You are growing like a champ!

Dear Work,
It has been intense lately working three different jobs.  As of this week I get to enjoy a long break from the College and I am pretty thrilled about that.  Three days a week instead of 5 sounds downright perfect.  I will probably spend the first handful of off-days watching movies in my pajamas as I knit.  Don't worry, I will get productive eventually I presume.

Dear Frantic Shoppers,
I did most of my shopping online this year as I sat on the couch.  It was quite lovely and relaxing.  Don't worry though, I will save one or two things for the days just before Christmas.  That way I can do some great people watching, take in the last of the season's Christmas music, and pass smiles all around.  Deep breaths, repeat to yourselves, "Christmas will be wonderful!"  And then it will be!

Xoxo, Katie

November Letters

Dear November,

Hello there.  I have lots of exciting travels happening this month which means lots of time with my family, extended and nuclear.  I am loving your call for sweaters, scarves, and boots.  There's a part of me that just wants to keep mountain biking forever, but I understand that you need your time to shine, even when you rush in a briskness that means colder months are ahead.

Dear Pumpkin,

I feel like apple season is nearly through (after finally enjoying a caramel apple last night) and now we are onto orangier things.  I can't wait to break out my favorite recipes that involve you as their star ingredient.  I know I will definitely be enjoying pumpkin pancakes and I will try to tweak my favorite pumpkin square recipe to make it gluten free.  I literally don't think I can wait!!

Dear Leaves,

You are covering every space of ground these days and I just love to crunch you.  Jeremy finds it a tad bit embarrassing as I hop from leaf to leaf when we take walks at lunch time, but I can't help myself.  I feel it's pretty healthy to let your five year old self take over on a regular basis.  Life is not meant to be lived so seriously. 

Dear Private Practice,

You are so fun and my clients are great!!  I was most intimidated by the billing I would have to do, and it has all turned out easier than I thought.  I mean it certainly took a lot of work (and endless forms) on the front end, which I tend to forget about, especially when the weekly procedures are way simple.  What a pleasant surprise!! I am loving it.  Therapy is the best!

Dear Dreams,

I feel that you are all really coming true.  I don't quite know what's next and the weird thing is that I am completely content with that.  I am reaching the goals I set for myself when I was teenager and I am feeling fulfilled and just so happy.  Life is a beautiful thing when you reach your goals and you find that the view is just as lovely as you thought it would be.

Dear New Job,

Well, you were unexpected.  I sent my resume to Bennington College in April, they took me out to dinner in September, and last week they called to offer me the job.  Literally their words, "We need you.  Everyone needs therapy and we don't know why."  And so there you arrived!  It's exciting and busy... oh so busy!  I love my work, so why not do it for as many as possible!

Dear Seminary,

Hey there new church job! I get to hang out with the awesome teenagers in our church congregation every morning from 6:30 - 7:20.  It was also unexpected (and it is EARLY) and adds to the crazy feelings sometimes, but all in all it is so fun.  These kids are amazing!!  We are studying the Old Testament and learning all about Moses right now.  What a champ!?!  Anyways... after getting over the intimidation of teaching them daily, I am just taking it one day at a time and that's helping a lot. 

Xoxo, Katie

October Letters

Dear October,
Welcome!  I am looking forward to you this year (and every year I am pretty sure).  You are full of apple crisp and pumpkin pancakes, gluten free of course.  And cozy sweaters, tall boots, and extra cuddling.  The leaves, the pumpkin patches, and the hot apple cider.  Corn mazes, scarecrows, and loads of baking. You completely embody Fall and I have a feeling that our first Fall in Vermont is going to be quite delightful around here.

Dear Career,
We are about to embark on something really big together.  I am most certainly terrified and most of all excited. There is so much work to do and things to get in order.  One thing at a time, I like to say!  I can't wait to share our newest adventure with everyone soon.  Let's do this!

Dear Leaves,
You are coming alive and the brilliant show is just getting started.  I imagine your peak will be in about two weeks.  I am constantly looking around in amazement as I drive around this gorgeous valley.  I am trying to take you in with new eyes and really recognize the wonder.  It is incredible how your lush green can morph into vibrant reds, peaches, oranges, golds, and yellows.  Stunning!  I am just loving you so much right now.

Dear Summer,
You had a brief resurgence last month which coincided with my birthday and I thank you for that.  It was warm and lovely.  With these cooler temperatures rolling in, I believe that you have officially slipped away, temporarily of course.  Don't be sad, my dear friend, the other seasons need their time to shine.  I will meet you on the other side of Spring.  Godspeed.

Dear Knitting,
We meet again.  I know we have an on-again, off-again kind of relationship, but I just can't help but feel that you are really only a cold weather hobby for me.  So you must by tickled pink that Fall is here to stay, since it just gets me into the knitting spirit!  YouTube always has to help me get back into the swing of things because I often forget some details when we haven't played for 6 months.  I am gearing up to try cabling and I think it is going to be fantastic!

Dear London,
We are coming for you - "we" being my mom and me.  The ultimate girl's trip is fast approaching and I am all sorts of giddy about it.  I am looking forward to being charmed by your amazing architecture, quaint shops, and distinguished accents.  I believe we will become fast friends with memories of our adventures to last a lifetime.  Any last suggestions of what we should see? October 10th can't come fast enough!

Dear General Conference,
You are only days away and I just love everything about you.  It's one of my favorite weekends because I always feel so reassured, valued, and inspired as I listen to our church leaders.  I know these amazing men and women are called of God.  I know that as I listen with an open and willing heart, I will be guided by the Holy Ghost in how to apply their teachings into my life.  I invite everyone to tune in to lds.org if they have a spare moment or if they are in need of some uplifting. It will certainly do the trick. 

xoxo, Katie

September Letters

Dear September,
You are my most favorite month of the year. You are just perfect. You begin with the continuation of the lovely summer nights of star gazing and s'mores. And then you gently slide into the coziness of fall with your cooler nights and brilliant leaves. What a perfect mixture! I'm totally looking forward to it.

Dear Best Day of the Year,
Hey there Birthday!! You are coming up... only 18 more days until I am 27! I can be kind of a monster on my birthday, so I am going to try and keep it under control. I do want to fill it with lovely outdoor fun (kayaking, hiking, biking), back deck grilling, ice cream, and maybe a piñata if I am really lucky.

Dear Hot Husband,
You are wonderful. I am so grateful for you. You work hard and you're just the most handsome and kind person ever, not to mention hilarious. You have a soul of gold and I am so happy we have each other. I know my birthday can be stressful because I just love it so much. Just know that the best gift you can give me is what you already do all of the time... going on adventures and making meaningful memories with me. You're my forever fave.

Dear Apple Orchard,
We pass by you everyday on the way to work and this week you were suddenly dotted with fabulous red. We can't wait to come gather some farm apples for ourselves. Maybe we will pair them with some fresh peanut butter from the Market Wagon - the Mennonite shop down the road. Now that would be a true rural experience. Delicious!

Dear New Car,
You are a beauty and you have finally made us a 2 car family!! (as of YESTERDAY!) After 6 1/2 years of marriage with one car, we are pretty excited about this. I have decided to name you Luna. Mainly because I am obsessed with the majestic night sky. Also, my bike is Stella ("star" in Latin), so Luna ("moon" in Latin) fits perfectly. We are always up for awesome adventures, so I hope you enjoy that kind of thing. Welcome to the gang!

Dear Car Buying Process,
You are miserable. I now have first hand experience and get why people don't enjoy you very much. Don't get me wrong, I love the end result, I am just so glad we don't have to deal with you very often. I wash my hands of you and your stress!

Dear School Supplies,
You tempt me with your fresh crayons, endless notebooks, and promise of learning. I was able to resist a small box of crayons the other day, but only when I considered how many crayons I already have at home. You are one of my favorite aisles to wander and you will always have a special place in my heart.  Maybe I will start assigning myself creative research projects so I have an excuse for some supplies. 

Xoxo, Katie

August Letters

Dear August,
Well, you have arrived.  And so quickly it seems.  Typically, you are for back to school prep, but since Jeremy and I are both not students for the first time EVER, we will just be playing.  Summer is in full force and we want to soak up every bit of it.  I'm hoping for more s'mores and drive-in movies.  This is going to be great.

Dear Nature,
You have been killing it.  I love everything about you, except maybe the bugs.  Yep, I could do without those.  The fresh air, the mountains, the lakes, the streams.  I feel like I'm living in a dream.

Dear Mountain Bikes,
We made the big purchase today!!! Sadly, they had to be ordered in the right colors/sizes so we don't have them just yet.  We are now just waiting for the precious gems to get shipped and built.  We can't wait to get on the trails and go exploring... on wheels!!

Dear Meteors,
I am mesmerized by you and think you're about the coolest thing around.  Your spectacular show is on it's way in just two weeks and I have been scheming away trying to figure out the best place to watch it.  Luckily, Vermont has about zero light pollution, so we are bound to see a good show. 

Dear Running,
Our relationship has been completely rekindled since our race at the end of June.  I know we took quite a break and I abandoned you for other methods of exercise, only flirting with you here and there.  I have finally rediscovered how fun you can be, especially when I have such inspiring roads to run on.  We may have to reevaluate things come winter though.

Dear Great-Grandma Verland,
I have been thinking about you a lot lately.  You had an adventurous soul in your later years and I find you quite inspiring.  I love that you took up painting in your late 60s and you were actually good at it.  I look around me these days and I feel deep within my bones an urge to paint the beauty around me.  Some might dismiss it, but I think to myself... it's in my genes.  I can surely start in my 20s if you started in your 60s.  

Xoxo, Katie

July Letters

Dear July,
You are the epitome of summer for me and in Vermont, you are especially lovely.  You might be the best month of the year, because we are in the midst of summer, but we aren't approaching those days in August, when the world gets a little sad because school is on the horizon for every kid out there. July, let's make this the best summer yet. 

Dear Independence Day,
You are certainly one of my favorite holidays.  I get all sorts of giddy thinking about hanging out with friends with barbecues, sparklers, s'mores, and fireworks.  You certainly know how to party and I hope our patriotic celebration includes all of these things.  So let's bring out the red, white, and blue!

Dear First Paycheck,
You rolled in today(!!) which means we are officially leaving the student days behind us.  And it feels so good!  Now I guess we can get serious about those student loans. 

Dear Vermont,
We have been here about a month and we are enjoying every bit of you.  Everything is beautiful and breathtaking.  I am soaking it all in, because I know summer doesn't last forever.  Good thing I try to have year round outdoor hobbies, so I can look forward to every season you have in store for us.  You are totally killing it this summer.

Dear New Job,
We are off to a slow start.  Hopefully, we can figure each other out and be good friends.  I just want you to know that I am doing my best.

Dear Manchester Outlets,
You are way too much fun.  I am trying to keep my distance because dangerous things can happen with so many deals at my disposal.  I think we can work out something that keeps us all sane and speaking to each other.  I just love the shopping possibilities you offer to this small town.

Dear Hiking,
I can't wait to get lost in these mountains, figuratively speaking. This Saturday we are coming for you!  I'm awaiting steep trails and beautiful vistas.  Hope you can deliver.

Xoxo, Katie

June Letters

Dear June,
While May was a month busy with celebrations, you are a month busy with transitions.  So many changes are on their way (new state, new home, new jobs) and they start today.  I'm looking forward to the adventure and reminding myself, while change can be hard, it always brings growth.  Also June, can you bring out the sun to play?

Dear Baltic Cruise,
YOU WERE AMAZING!  Seriously, trip of a life time with my cute family.  The ship was amazing, the crew was awesome, and we had the time of our lives. Cruising is the best and I would totally recommend it, especially when it is combined with visiting amazing countries.  I took so many pictures, so I will just be throwing them on here with limited verbiage (because there is kind of lot going on for me these days).  Anyway, thank you for the wonderful time and happy memories.  It was the best! 

Dear Last Day of My Job,
You are here - TODAY... and that is so weird.  It feels like I should have another month left.  I have been at Walden since September 2012, when I started as a wee intern.  So I have learned A LOT here!  I have loved it and I love working in the field of Eating Disorders.  The changes I have seen in my work have been so rewarding.  I will miss it, as well as all of my awesome coworkers!!

Dear Boston,
We say our good-byes in just a couple of days.  You have been our home for nearly 4 years, more than half of our marriage.  We have certainly enjoyed our time here and we have loved exploring all you have to offer.  I also love how close you are to so many cool places.  However, I will not miss the traffic or the cost of living.  Don't worry though, we will visit often because we know we will miss this crazy city. 

Dear Vermont,
We are coming for you! We are mostly excited and a little nervous.  I am excited for the change in scenery, because we all know I LOVE nature.  I am also excited to be intentional about creating our new lives in the area.  Change allows for that sort of thing.  I am nervous that I won't make any friends.  I am also nervous that the closest Target is an hour away (at least a Gap Outlet is just up the road from us). We aren't sure what life will be like in our small mountain town and we are ready to find out.

Dear Packing,
We have to get serious.  Let's play nice, okay?

Dear Rain,
You have been quite lovely and at the same time I think we have had enough of you.  Feel free to take a rest from all of your hard work and send the sun out to play for a while.  It is June after all and things are plenty green around here.  Let's get this summer party started.

Xoxo, Katie

May Letters

Dear May 2015,
Oh boy have we been waiting for you, since August 2011 I believe.  You are quite an exciting month for us. You have also been blessing us with the most beautiful flowers and blooming trees.  I will work on savoring every moment you have to offer. 

Dear Jeremy's Graduation,
You are a mere 2 weeks away.  I am so amazed that you are this close.  Not that I am complaining... I am more than grateful.  When Jeremy started dental school, it felt like you would never come.  And now you are here.  And life is happening.  And things are good.  I am loving this.

Dear Jeremy,
I am so proud of you. You are such a hard worker, dedicated to being honest in every part of your life, and have a way with people that makes them feel cared for and heard.  I know you are going to be unstoppable in your professional life because I am convinced that you are the best dentist ever. 

Dear Current Job,
You are getting in the way of all of the fun things I want to do.  I have sunshine to enjoy and beaches to sit on before I leave my dearest Boston.  It is a major plus that I enjoy my work and love my coworkers, but sometimes I just want to play hooky and spend my day enjoying these beautiful spring days.

Dear Cruise,
You are also fast approaching (like your friend, Jeremy's Graduation) and we are so excited.  I have never explored your methods and I foresee that this style of vacationing will be quite wonderful.  I have been researching our stops and there are so many fabulous things to explore.  In the meantime, we are busy praying that our Russian Visas will arrive in time. 

Dear God,
Want to know what I have learned this year?  I have learned that you are most definitely in the details.  There are just too many things falling exactly into place for any of this to be by happenstance.  Others might say coincidences happen, but I say God happens, miracles happen.  I want to say thank you for your influence and guidance in my life.  I know that you are rooting for me.

Dear LICSW Exam,
Bring it!!!  I think I am ready.  I will get studying and meet you next Wednesday.  Let's play nice, ok?

Xoxo, Katie

P.S. Happy May Day, Friends!

April Letters: Belated

Dear April,
I know I'm 7 days late, but welcome none the less.  I love that you truly embrace spring.  It's almost as if you drag it along with you as the days pass, pushing winter out of the way.  It's quite refreshing to know that warmer days are on their way.  

Dear Easter,
What a wonderful holiday you are?!  I think I have under-appreciated you in years past.  I am terribly sorry.  This year I tried to be more mindful of the celebration of Christ in the weeks prior and it really helped me stay focused on the miracle and gift of the Atonement.  We are so loved by our Heavenly Parents and by Christ.  It is just amazing.

Dear General Conference,
I love when you come and I hate when you go.  Every talk is beautifully written and provides these golden nuggets of insight.  I always appreciate a new way to think about gospel topics and principles.  I look forward to studying the words of our inspired leaders in the coming months.

Dear Dirty Snow Piles,
You are shrinking more and more and I am loving it.  I think you will be non-existent in the next few weeks which makes my heart sing.  Don't get me wrong, I really do appreciate that we broke the record for snowiest winter in Boston (ever!) together.  I am just ready to move on... it's not me, it's you.

Dear April Showers,
I have been loving your presence, mostly because when you are around I know the Dirty Snow Piles are slowly being demolished.  You quench the Earth quite beautifully which makes it possible for us to enjoy the green mountains and spring flora.  Keep it coming!

Dear Tennis Courts,
You just got your nets! Hooray! I just can't wait to get out there and play.  Maybe this week the sun will shine and the winds will cease at a moment when Jeremy and I are both home and we can go hit for a little while.  I will be patiently waiting.


Xoxo, Katie