You are officially a teenager. Unofficially, you have been a teen since about 2! You have always had a mind of your own and know what you like and what you don’t. You are my fearless, adventurous kid who is willing to try anything at least once. You don’t need friends to join something, you do it because you want to and you end up making friends along the way.
This year hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. We’ve had to find our footing as a family navigating giving you the freedom you need while still giving you boundaries. I am thankful that we have such open communication. You can come to me (or your father or brother) with anything. We will always be here to listen. Giving you room to grow means that you will work out your own problems, and you’re all for that. Hopefully you know that if you need us to step in, we will. It’s a real sign of maturity when you don’t have your parents fight your battles and you take care of your own issues. You’ve always been good at this. I don’t think we tell you enough how proud we are of that.
This coming year is already off to an amazing start! You go to States for Power of the Pen in a month. You start Pointe in June. You’ve achieved straight A+’s for the first three quarters of school while taking two honors classes, 2 dance classes, student teaching a dance class, being in Student Council, NJHS, Power of the Pen, Ensemble, soccer, and skiing. Next month or two, we add softball and tennis to the mix. I’m proud of you for always doing your best and making sure once you commit to something, you follow through.
My wish for you for this year is that you could see yourself through my eyes. You are so critical of yourself. You don’t ever give yourself enough credit. You also don’t give yourself enough grace. You are exceptional. I need you to be able to see that.
I can not wait to see what this year holds for you. Whatever it is, you’ll meet it with the same fierce and determined attitude you always do. I’m so proud to be your Mommy.
Happy Birthday, my sweet Baby Boo.
Love you. Always.
Mom