Happy 17th Birthday

Dear Natalie,

What can I say that I haven't already? Seventeen years ago you made me a mother. It's a day I will never forget. The day my heart swelled with love.

In some ways it's hard to believe that you're not a little baby anymore, but then I also am looking forward to what's to come for you. This is an important year ahead for you, but I know you know that. Here's what I hope for you this year.

I hope you will take the time to have fun with your friends. Create your own stories to one day share with your 17 year old daughter at Moe's over a bowl of Queso.

I hope you will follow your heart when it comes to choosing your college. You will know what's right for you. Trust in yourself and don't second guess yourself. It's going to be scary, no doubt about it, but you will know what the right choice is when the time comes.

I hope you will smile a lot. There's really no greater part of my day than seeing you smiling.

I hope you won't stress too much. But when you do get stressed I hope you will remember this too shall pass.

I hope you will always have the big heart you have, especially when it comes to your little brother and sisters. And yes, I said sisters, as much as Kaitlyn gets on your nerves I know you would have her back when it really mattered.

I hope you will come to know that you did not let Celeste down all those years ago. And you did not let me down either. So I hope you will stop beating yourself up over that.

And finally I hope you have fun. This is an exciting time in your life so embrace it and don't be afraid to try something new.

Your future is bright kiddo. Thanks for making me a mom. I miss you being that little baby all those years ago, but at the same time I'm loving watching you experience all of these exciting things.

Happy Birthday!

Love,
Mommy