Dear Ellie,
Happy Sweet 16! This is a big birthday for you. You are taking your driving test this weekend and getting a driver's license. You have lined up your first official job as a lifeguard and swim instructor (at the same pools I lifeguarded and taught lessons when I was a teenager). I feel like you are making a giant leap closer to adulthood and independence...and it is a little scary for me. However, I have the utmost confidence in you. I have watched this past year as you have identified areas in your life you wanted to improve and then you did it.
You are still juggling a very demanding schedule of rigorous classes and athletics. I have loved watching you play water polo. You make the game more exciting with your aggressive defensive and scoring point after point for your team. You definitely don't get your athletic talent from me!
I look at you and I see a gorgeous, determined, sarcastic, funny girl. I see a tough exterior that shields a sensitive spirit. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable. You are beautiful inside and out.
Ellie, I hope you know that I love you no matter what. You don't have to be the best student or the best athlete or the best daughter (even though you are), what I want most is for you to be happy and to feel proud of your effort. I will always be here if you need me. You truly are my favorite daughter!
Happy birthday to the one who made me a mom.
Love you forever,
Mom
