As I'm writing this, I'm listening to a song that always reminds me of you.
Wildflowers, by Tom Petty:
You belong somewhere close to me
Far away from your trouble and worry
You belong somewhere you feel free
My baby girl is turning 13!
Having two teenagers in the house is so much more joyful and fun and gratifying than I ever imagined it would be, and that is thanks in part to your hilarious, generous, perceptive nature.
Not only are you a dedicated, hard-working, self-motivated student, but you are a loyal sister, trustworthy friend and just truly a delight to be around. My biggest hope for you and your sister has always been that you would stay true to yourselves and - besides you unfortunately (and hopefully temporarily) abandoning your flamboyant fashion choices - you have done just that. You know exactly who you are, and I admire you so much for it.
Some of your current favorites:
Watching Castle/S.W.A.T./The Rookie on the couch all together, your phone and tablet, skin care and makeup, shopping (especially trips together to Tigotà and Tiger), spending time with your family, packing your bags and travelling, sushi, snuggles, not having to do homework, Dr. Pepper, candy, learning Tik Tok dances on YouTube, getting good grades, board games, family traditions - especially Christmas and birthdays, being free.
Watching Castle/S.W.A.T./The Rookie on the couch all together, your phone and tablet, skin care and makeup, shopping (especially trips together to Tigotà and Tiger), spending time with your family, packing your bags and travelling, sushi, snuggles, not having to do homework, Dr. Pepper, candy, learning Tik Tok dances on YouTube, getting good grades, board games, family traditions - especially Christmas and birthdays, being free.
Some of your current dislikes:
Having a lot of homework, not feeling like you're ready enough for a test, group projects where your team members are not very motivated, when your sister bosses you around, having to clean up, cutting your hair, talking about your feelings, when someone doesn't show you respect or treats you like a baby, throwing things away, getting in trouble, anyone fighting or raising their voices, not getting enough down time to rest, eating fish, getting lectured.
Your generosity of spirit, your laugh, your drive to be a good person, your quick wit and hysterical take on the world around you...being around you is pure sunshine, even when you are in a bad mood or feeling particularly teen-angsty. I love having you as my little buddy and I know you will only continue to grow into an even truer version of yourself as the years go by - and I can't wait to see what extraordinary things the future will bring for you.
I am proud of you beyond words and am filled with gratitude that I get this front row seat. We love you, Pookie bear, no matter what - never ever forget it.
Welcome to the Teenajerk (ⓒSamina) years!!!
