Thirteen, How did you get here so fast?

Sydney!  Oh wow, thirteen years old. Are you sure we are ready for this.  You get to be my first and I am sure I will do all the wrong stuff and say all the wrong things, but somehow, we will make it through, and despite me, you are and will continue to be an amazing young woman who makes me proud everyday.  When I think back about this year and the so many things that have happened in your life, I am amazed at how you have handled yourself.  You graciously accepted a new brother into our family. You set the example to your younger siblings in your unconditional love for him.  You had an awful accident and went through surgery and months of physical therapy.  I saw you doing cartwheels yesterday and am so thankful for God's healing of your leg.  That was not an easy time for you, but I saw God making you stronger through it.  You reluctantly did the swim team this summer because I wanted you too and found out that you are an awesone swimmer!  You participated in your school's drama production and rose to the challenge.  You amaze me!  You learned all your lines and did a fantastic job!!!  I am so proud of you for trying new things and stretching yourself beyond your comfort zone.  Most importantly, I see you living out your faith in your life.  You always seek to do the right thing and set a good example. Already at 13, I see you making hard choices and being true to yourself despite what might be popular at the time.  You know who you are and are content to be with people who love you and care about you and do not seek to gain approval of others because of their status or popularity.  It takes some people a lifetime to learn that.  I love you sweet girl!!  Happy 13th Birthday.




Sydney as the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Zoombie Land