Fifteen

How can you be 15? It literally feels like only yesterday you were a preschooler watching Horton Hears a Who every day. And now you're a teenager listening to Hamilton every day. I guess one thing hasn't changed about you is that you know what you like. 

There have been a lot of changes for you this year. You became a high schooler. I feel like I have way less understanding about what goes on in your day. You have a super complicated schedule that I cannot even fathom. But you were doing so well! I love this photo of you someone shared on Facebook during the pre-Thanksgiving pep rally. You were late getting there so you just sat whereever, and just took in all the craziness (and wore your mask like you were supposed to!)  My high school self would’ve idolized you. you are so comfortable in your own skin and you just march to the beat of your own drum. I love it,  and I'm so proud of you.

Not only are you doing well in high school academically but you have taken on a whole other set of extra-curricular activities that you love. It feels like you found your people amongst your drama tech friends. You always come home from Tech excited by what you've done there.

(And you still tolerate your little sisters shenanigans...occasionally)

And while you’ve always loved to take photos, you're actually using your skills in a new way now on the yearbook staff. These activities have forced you to get out of your comfort zone and I'm so impressed that you're taking them on. I was so proud of you the day that you walked into a gym full of student council members (including seniors!) and herded all of them together so that you could get your yearbook photos of them! I was terrified on your behalf, but you did it! (High school still triggers me, apparently!)

That’s not to say you still don't enjoy your introverted time at home with your kitty friends. High school starts WAY too early but you make up for it on the weekend. And they cats love to snuggle with you when you sleep in. They know that you are a reliable source of warmth that doesn't get up too early!

After all the stress of high school, I know you'll really appreciate the summer this year! Hopefully you'll get to sail and be on the water as much as possible. It really is you're happy place!

These last two years have been so hard on all of us, but your resilience is admirable. We're so proud of all you've accomplished!

Happy Birthday Maddy! We love you so much!