B,
My love for you is deep and wide. I am in awe as I watch you grow and change. There are so many benefits that come with being the oldest child but there are also some draw backs. You get to do everything first. The little ones want to be just like you. On the other hand, you have to be patient with your parents as we learn and grow with you. We've never had an 11 year old before. Each new stage is a learning process for all of us. You have given us grace as we try to catch up. You handle it all with strength and dignity.
You are constantly learning something new. You tell me that you think in pictures and I can see that in the way you are always sketching, designing and inventing. You have been tenacious in overcoming areas of struggle in your education. You are a joy to teach. Your capacity to remember the things we read together fascinates me. In this way, you are much like your Dad. You are also a hard worker, brave and strong just like him.
Your attention to detail, awareness of your surroundings, mindfulness of safety and your desire for the rules to be followed makes you like me. Also, you get wicked grumpy when you are hungry. This comes from me too. Sorry about that.
Watching you grow in your understanding of our great God is a sacred privilege for me. I have no doubt that He has amazing plans for you. I promise you, I will be on my face before Him for you always. You are clearly called to love and serve Him. It is my delight to watch your life unfold.
To say I am proud of you would be an understatement. I adore you. I treasure you. I will never stop thanking God for you. My first child. The one who began my dream of being a mom. I love you something fierce.
I look forward to what this year will bring for you. I'll be right here cheering you on.
Love,
Mom
