Today my baby turns thirteen. I still haven't decided how I feel about this. Maybe the pile of tissues in the trash can under my desk is an indication of how I feel. This is a major birthday. It's a big milestone. I feel like with this one she's crossing the threshold into young adulthood. There's a sense of accomplishment seeing your child grow and develop. As parents, we know that there's an invisible finish line, and our children just keep getting closer and closer to it. We know our job is never done, even after they've crossed that line.
We can hold on tightly, but one by one our fingers will begin to lose their grip. She will spread her wings and take her first flight. That's a hard one to think about. I'm not quite ready for that, and I know she isn't either. But the day isn't far off.
But until it comes, I will be here. I will be here in those times you want me to be far away from you. I will be here when you want me to be close to you.
I will be here as you go confidently in the direction of your dreams. I will be here when a dream doesn't quite work out and you need someone to love and support you through a difficult time.
You are such a gift. You are sweet, kind, gentle spirited, and curious to the core. You love with all your heart, and we couldn't be prouder of the young woman you are becoming. Here's to the next 13 years, Harper Lizzie! May you find and follow your passion.
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