This year, Daddy wanted to write your letter.
Love you. Always.
Mommy
Dear [Sunshine],
Today, you are 14. You are growing up so fast and in such a complicated world. I know you are trying to navigate your family, friends, school, and activities. Sometimes you will make mistakes and need some help. We are here if you need us.
All of these things will get harder. You will need to use your heart and try to decide what you need instead of what you want others to think. Life gets so much easier when you learn this. People learn to trust you because you are an amazing person.
I have never met anyone so full of life when you are here. You can be so happy that everyone around cannot help but to be happy, too. It is like your superpower that you have always had.
Next year it is off to High School. You can do this. Let the people who care about you help you. Mommy, Daddy, [Monster], and your friends can help you with school work, and social challenges. Remember to be kind because all of those other kids are going through the same things.
I know birthdays have changed. Parties and cake have given way to hanging with your friends. That’s OK. Just remember that we love you, and want to be with you. We can still see that happy little girl that played soccer in a fancy dress in the mud.
I love you,
Daddy