Happy Sweet 16, Chris

 Dear Chris,

Okay, I'm not gonna lie, that's still hard to type, even harder to actually say. Sorry, but 15 years of calling you CJ, it's just hard. So please continue cutting us some slack, won't you?

Looking back over these last 16 years I can't help but think where did the time go? When we made your time capsule 15 years ago I thought it's going to take forever before we get to see what's in here. Boy, was I wrong. I blinked and you were towering over me. It probably doesn't feel that way to you, probably feels like it took forever to get here. You made it though, we made it even.

Kiddo, I want so many wonderful things for you and your life. And trust me when I say this, all the things you want to do with your life are absolutely 100 percent possible. I know you might think I have to say that because I'm your mom, but all that means is I know you better than anyone else does. And that's exactly why I know you got this. You are so unbelievably smart. And it's okay that math and writing aren't really your thing, you don't have to be the best at those things. You do have to always try your best though, even in the areas that are difficult for you. And I think you are beginning to see that.

We had a rough year this past year, but I see that fire back in your eye, that urge to stay on track. And hey, I don't expect perfection, no one is perfect. I'm sure there are going to be mess ups along the way, but as long as you keep on correcting yourself you'll be just fine. 

Your future is so bright. Whether you join the Army or the Navy or just go right into working in an automotive shop after high school or maybe something else entirely, who knows. I know you'll do great things. Keep working hard, and keep being kind and polite to others. Those doors are going to keep on opening for you.

Keep up the good work you're doing this year, Chris. I am so very proud of you. And the more responsible you are, the more responsibility you'll continue to earn. An after school job, your license, and your own car might not be too far off, so long as you do your best to always think before you do. Happy 16th birthday CJ, AKA Chris. I love you. Best early birthday present I ever got!

Love always, 

Mom

Happy 21st Birthday Kaitlyn

 Dear Kaitlyn,

Twenty-one wonderful years of watching you grow and learn. I don't think I could admire anyone more than I have admired you. With your great will and tenacity to do whatever you set your mind to with all of the roadblocks that get thrown in your way. The things you have experienced in your short life I truly believe would have made me crumble. But they have just made you stronger and more determined. I have always loved that so much about you.

This is a big birthday. And as usual you have lots of big plans for the year ahead. I am so looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds. Daddy and I will always be here for you. And just know, just because I might not be jumping up and down with excitement when you tell me one of your plans, or I tell you I don't think something is a good idea, that 100% does not mean I think you're stupid. I could never ever think that about you. Not after everything you have overcome in your life. I'm just a mom who worries and wants to protect you from ever getting hurt. Doesn't mean I am right though. You have to make your own choices in life and I know that, but it doesn't mean I'm going to stop playing devil's advocate for you if I think you should look at something from a different point of view.

I want you to go out there and live your life however you see fit. And Daddy and I will be proud of you no matter what. Because you are a good, kind, considerate and helpful person. We know only good things are meant to happen for you.

I miss the little girl you used to be, but absolutely love the beautiful, strong, confident young woman you have become. Happy birthday Katie Kiddles! I hope all of your dreams come true.

Love always,

Mom

P.S. Sorry there's no picture, but you know how you are with having your picture taken ;).

Happy 12th Birthday Alyssa

 Dear Alyssa,

The day has finally arrived. You are now officially 12. A much anticipated birthday for you as the last year as a preteen. You have been talking non stop for weeks now about today, well perhaps months. I do hope it ends up being everything you hoped for.

And speaking of hopes, looking ahead I also hope the last year in the preteen phase are everything you imagined and then some. I know things have been tough for you this last year with so many changes. Starting middle school, me going to work out of the house leaving you to come home a lot to no one home. I hope you can embrace this chance of freedom for you. But not too much. We have a lot of trust in you that you'll make good choices. I'm sure you won't disappoint.

Keep on smiling and don't be in such a hurry to grow up. Enjoy every minute of being 12. Because you'll only be 12 once. I love how social you are, always wanting to do things with your friends. I'm so glad you have found yourself such a nice friend group and that you all will have each others backs. Keep having fun and don't ever lose that spunk.

I love you so much and love that I get to call you my daughter. Happy 12th birthday, Lissy. 

Love always,

Mommy