Dear Josie,
Since you now are 12, have Instagram, and a brand new iPhone, I think it’s only fitting that I actually write like I’m talking to you…not just a sappy mom birthday post.
Josie, I see a glimmer of who you are destined to be clearer every day I am your mom.
As a baby, we would laugh at how “serious” you were, eyeing all of us with large, quizzical eyes.
As a toddler, we would marvel at your ability to direct your sisters in dramatic play on the swing set, making your entrance with a great flourish.
As you have grown into a young woman, your determination astounds me. We worried that you wouldn’t feel comfortable showing cattle like your big sister. We hoped you would, but at less than 75 pounds, holding a 1500 pound steer takes guts.
You have them.
You did it. You do it, and you love it.
Even better, you became our family’s social chair at shows, introducing all of us to your “new besties.”
Going hand in hand with this determination and spunk is you talent for singing and performing. We can’t wait to watch you grow and gobble up opportunities to share your gift.
But Josie, the most important aspect of your personality, the one that has grown as you have matured, is your empathy. You are quick to be irritated, no doubt, but I think that’s not because you’re just annoyed at the situation. I think it’s because you have been given the gifts of empathy and perception. You feel “all the feels,” and while that may lead to heart ache and tricky times, this will serve you well. Being a person who feels deeply may seem like a bad thing during this icky junior high time, but it will serve you well in the later years of your life. An empathetic person is one that will make this world a better place, as cheesy as that sounds. Your emotions will lead your heart in a direction that will only make you a better friend, a better person in this weird world.
I do love being your mom every day. You keep life exciting. You challenge me. You make me laugh. But the best part? Seeing you take some of my dreams and make them your own. That’s the best part of being a mom: seeing your kids do things that you only dreamed about.
So keep feeling all the feels. Keep forging ahead. Keep trying new things, singing new songs, making new friends.
Your dad and I are watching you on the sidelines, backstage, outside the ring. We’re ready to help you, remind you to pick up your room and keep track of your stuff. But most of all, we’re right here to cheer you on and guide you to keep working toward the person who we know you are destined to be.
We love you dearly, Josephine. Happiest of birthdays my spunky kid.
Love,
Mom
