In the course of raising children, there comes a time when one’s best parental intentions meet the hard reality of the child’s will and its expression in the world around him or her. It is an amazing sight to behold. The once pliable child begins the next phase of the great adventure of life as a walking, talking, and increasingly independent person. The development of the will varies from one person to another, and is nothing short of amazing, awe-inspiring, and, dare we say it, challenging. While raising four children, two of whom are princesses (at least in my mind), I began to take note of the creative and mysterious ways of the human will. I began to write this book when our daughters were still young and have only now published it because of their strong encouragement to do so. Though it is short, it has been more than a decade in the making. The deeper message is simple but meaningful to both parent and child. This is a fun children's book that teaches the value of family adventures, love, understanding, and togetherness despite our many differences. I hope you and your princess will enjoy sharing it as much as I have enjoyed writing it and reading it to my own princesses. 

~Philip William Calvert  

    I want to thank my wife, Kristen, and my four children, Nathaniel, Benjamin Pierce, Rebekah Praise, and Abigail.

I have lived in four countries on three continents, I have written and published five books and three songs, served as a missionary in South America, and have hiked some of the most challenging places on earth. But, despite all of that, by far my greatest accomplishment is raising children who love others, work hard, have integrity, and are full of grace and mercy. 

With age has come the beautiful realization that the best resume parents can have is the testimony of their children. 

They say more about who we are than a thousand accolades, plaques, and awards. 

I also would like to thank my oldest son, Nathaniel, for this book’s cover design, as well as Susan K. White who, in addition to being a gifted poet, is a talented illustrator. 

This book could not have taken shape without her vision. I am truly grateful.

~Philip William Calvert  

  Children make the world a better place. They are a gift from God. Of all the things I have done in my life, by far my greatest legacy is my four children. 

In fact, the older I get the less I am interested in what I have done and the more I am enthralled by what my children are doing with their lives. 

As you read this fun book, fully embrace the marvelous personhood of your little princess. Your child just may be the greatest gift you will ever receive. 

One day, she will launch into the world with the lessons, morals, and values you have helped to instill in her. Enjoy these precious moments to their fullest. 

Because of the great gift that is a child, I dedicate this book to your child. May she, and your family, be blessed beyond measure along the incredible and unpredictable journey of life.

~Philip William Calvert