You are the picture of love, dependability, patience, kindness, and encouragement. You are the things we want to see in our kids and the fact that we do is in no small part due to the example that you have set.

But, E is E. And she doesn’t do anything halfway…so her “calm” sophomore year turned into more than her usual synchro, tennis, school, youth in government routine. It was all that plus three AP classes, working in the writing center at school during her “free” time, driving hours, applying for PSEO for next year, taking the PSAT a year early because she could, orchestra solo and ensemble competition…it just never ends. And the craziest thing is that she makes it all look easy.

The past year has been a big one for B with lots of amazing opportunities, big accomplishments, and the consistent sweetness and humor that we adore from him.

A year of athletic accomplishments, academic growth, and lots of laughs. B is 14 and almost 6’ — but will always be my baby.

In short, E has thrived.

And yes, there have been challenges. But the grace and determination with which she has faced those challenges is something I admire tremendously. I’ve joked about this but I mean it: I want to be like E when I grow up.

Most of all I’m grateful for a kind, caring son who I know deep down loves me a lot even though I force selfies on him and ask him about his feelings. One day I like to think that he’ll appreciate those things.

I know that I’m biased but I am constantly impressed with this 7th grader. She is accomplishing things I’ve never done. I cannot put into words how proud I am of her and the beautiful, kind, determined, talented teenager that she is. Her future looks so bright and I’m so excited to be along for the ride, being her loudest cheerleader every step of the way. GO E!

My sweet B. How can he be 12 already? I know parents constantly say this but it’s so true… I don’t know where the time goes. Wasn’t he just running down the block, excitedly greeting his sister as she finished her day in Kindergarten? How is he on the cusp of middle school???

I know that things can change, especially during these “middle” years. Things that one day seem amazing turn into a disaster the next day. But I am loving the fact that the good days far outnumber the bad and can’t say enough of how proud I am of the young woman E is becoming. I am so honored to be her mom and be able to cheer her on from the sidelines as she basks in the glow of the spotlight. The place I’ve learned she LOVES being. Watch out world.