For the majority of the past 16 years you’ve been the one that threw the tantrums, that didn’t have to share because you were “just too cute,” and the one that got away with the attitude because you were still “finding your personality.” You were a huge pain in my butt… but you also taught me so much.
You taught me how to love and protect more than anything ever has. You taught me how to be patient and how to share, especially when I didn’t want to. As you’ve grown you’ve made me laugh when I’m stressed, made me snort all kinds of liquid out of my nose because of a dumb joke you’ve told, and become my best friend, my confidant, and my person.
Thank you for supporting me even when it meant moving away, for allowing our weekly FaceTime dates to fill me with so much joy, and for letting me have breakdowns about not being capable of “adulting” one second longer. Thank you for understanding when I’m not able to be home all the time and for forgiving me when I fall short of being the example that you need.
Thank you for letting me walk beside you as you grow into the beautiful and strong woman you are becoming. Thank you for calling me when you cry, when life is going great, and when you need help. I'm sorry I don't have all of the answers, but it makes my heart so full when you seek my help anyway. I miss your constant smart remarks and inability to get through a joke without busting out laughing before you finish. I’m so lucky to have a one of a kind dime like you.
I’m proud of you for standing up for yourself and chasing after your dreams. I’m proud of who you are and the person you become with each passing day. Never question your worth as you go through this new phase of your life. You are a beautiful child of the King and even though I can’t walk beside you everyday, He always will.
I want you to know that no matter how far apart we are in distance, you’ve left a footprint on my heart that no time or space could ever erase.
I love you long time kid. I’m so thankful for you. Keep being your outspoken, spunky, lively self. It will take you places.