You turned 17 this weekend and, according to your report, it was a good birthday. You didn't have many gifts to unwrap--everything you requested was too big, especially the four pairs of size 15 shoes! You also requested that your jet ski be licensed and fixed.
Parenting you this year is like waking up everyday to see a miracle. It is pure pleasure to watch you use your healthy brain and great skills to problem solve and love life. You have negotiating a difficult prom season with finesse. You finished a losing basketball season without a lot of accolades or awards and experienced disappointment. I see it only motivating you and am so grateful you can express your feelings.
I am astounded at how you notice things. You decided to buy a nice suit, because you can honestly tell the difference between a well and ill fitting suit--at age 17! The other night you noticed an empty gas tank and filled up dad's car so he wouldn't have to do it on Sunday. You are very good to notice boys who pay too much attention to your little sister. Last Monday you took your little brother's to go have dinner with Wilson. This last act of kindness was breathtaking to me.
I'm so proud of how you have become a leader in our home, at church and at school. I know you still struggle with insecurity, but you are incredibly cognoscente and capable of thinking about others. Heavenly Father has blessed you with such gifts and I love watching you develop them.
I can't yet think about you leaving home without crying because you have been such a joy. You have been my friend. Your kindness has healed our family more than anything this year. I love our late night talks and the way you ask my opinion on things from recipes to hair styles. I love watching you develop a testimony and faith in Christ and discussing the scriptures with you in seminary.
I am so grateful for all 17 years of being your mom and I love you very, very much.
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