Dear Ellie,
Today is your 17th birthday! Or, as you informed me, your Dancing Queen birthday (and considering how much you loved Mama Mia when you were little, I loved the ABBA reference).
This last year has been one of tremendous growth and maturation for you. You have always been determined and goal-oriented, but I have watched with awe as you have tackled the many challenges the past year has presented. You are taking 5 AP classes, on the swim and water polo team, involved in numerous clubs (one of which, NEHS, you founded), and volunteering at every opportunity. I honestly don't know how you manage your busy schedule, but you do it all with very little input from your parents.
I have always admired your fiery spirt and stubborn determination (while simultaneously feeling frustrated by those same qualities). I love that you are a leader and not swayed by the actions of others. I know you struggle with anxiety, like so many of us do, but you confront your fears and put yourself out there.
Ellie, as much as I want to stop time, or at least slow it down a little, I am also excited to see what the future holds for you. This next year, you will have to make many important decisions. No matter what you path you choose, I have complete confidence in your abilities.
My birthday wish for you is that you will be a little less hard on yourself. You don't have to be perfect. You are enough. You have always been enough. You always will be enough.
Happy birthday, Choo-choo.
Mom
