Every day we do things, say things, make decisions, choose friends. Each day adds upon the first, the joke continuing, the story unfolding, the friendships building, the love returning. Up close one day is hardly distinguishable from another, but take 16 steps back and the whole becomes clear. The love, the nurture, the stings, the tears, the laughter, the growth, the layers of days built upon days that create a perfectly un-perfect 16 year old.
You were celebrated by friends that appreciate you, siblings that adore you, and adults that admire you because of all the things you’ve done and all the things you’ve said day after day. Embrace all the love and gratitude and let it fuel you on the days you don’t want to smile, on the days all decisions feel wrong because these friendships you are building are for life and the love you are giving only makes your story richer, bigger and brighter.
Friday
We celebrated 13 on the cusp of lockdown; friends warned and armed with antibacterial wipes everyone still showed up and celebrated. A year later with schools just starting to reopen and not sure how comfortable people felt, an outdoor venue was selected in the hopes a few would show up. All showed up. So either everyone is itching to get out or they just love this kid. 
My baby is ten. My last, my youngest has achieved a new milestone of double digits. He is constantly testing, pulling, stretching against the binds I put on him. Seemingly aimless, boundless energy with no purpose he is very intentional and knows that his desired outcome is always achieved, to have my attention. 
Our Everyday 