10 things about my Daughter that make me proud and glad to know she’s my kid.

Ok, I listen to a podcast called “Geek Loves Nerd” by James and Jennifer Kennison where they discuss being married and having kids and being a “geek” – James and a “nerd” – Jennifer. Their last episode: Show 38 – Twenty Things About Our Kids inspired me to write this post. Partly as a response and partly because they often inspire me and I figured that THIS inspiration must be acted upon.

So, here goes…

1. Stephanie is often selfless. She cares about her family and friends. Case in point: one year when she was in the 2nd or 3rd grade or so, her friend couldn’t go trick-or-treating on Halloween because she was sick. Steph decided to give her about half of her candy after she collected a massive pile of it. She did this WITHOUT prompting from either myself or her mom.

2. Steph has visited the following countries: Mexico, Costa Rica, England, France, Spain, Germany, Austria, and Russia. Oh, and she’s only 16.

3. Steph started a web project on MySpace last year before the election to try to give kids a “voice” in the election regarding the War in Iraq even though they aren’t old enough to vote. She started this on her own, not as a school project but because she “wanted to do something to make a difference.” (her words) www.myspace.com/whatsgoingonproject

4. She has been involved in Dance since about the age of 4. She can dance Lyrical, Ballet, Jazz and Hip-Hop. She competes and has won solo and team awards.

5. She is an “A” student in a school even though she’s in dance after school several days a week and often joins the major drama production each year, requiring 4-5 days of after school commitments as well.

6. She and I share the same sense of humor. Quirky, dry, witty, smart.

7. She is considering a career dedicated to environmental issues and/or activism. She loves the outdoors and wants to make a difference in keeping the planet a habitable and safe place for us to live.

8. She was invited to attend an exclusive educational series in Washington DC the weekend before President Barack Obama’s Inauguration where she attended classes and seminars on US History and Government. She had a session where former President Bill Clinton was the guest speaker. She also got to be in the crowd on the Mall to witness the Inauguration.

9. Steph loves horses. She can ride them and even train them. She owns a horse. She’s been thrown off and had her horse stumble and roll over ONTO her as she rode him. And with that she’s fearless and gets right back up and gets back on him and tries again.

10. She’s stubborn, like her mom. And strong willed, also like her mom. But, like I said, she’s also caring and giving. She’s a well rounded individual that isn’t afraid to stand up and make herself heard, but she’s also humble enough not to crave the attention.