To My Sissy Who....

Dear Whobeedoodle,

Two days ago you turned 13 years old and I am still trying to reconcile it within my heart and mind. It seems like just a few short years ago I brought you home from the hospital. 13 years has gone by too quickly. 13 is such a hard age. You're not quite a woman, but definitely not a little girl. I guess that is why they call it the 'tween' years.

I know you are trying desperately to stretch your wings because you think you are ready to fly, but I hope you will trust me when I have to clip them.

I know it feels like forever before you will be old enough to make your own decisions, but I hope you will trust me when I tell you--these years go by faster than you think and you need to enjoy the innocence of childhood.

I know you see other kids going to dances and hanging out with their friends, but I hope you understand that I keep you close because-- I understand that what looks like innocent fun will often lead you down roads you never wanted to travel.

I know there are so many things you don't understand and probably won't until your 'baby' is turning 13 years old, but I hope you trust that, next to God, I love you more than anyone. Sometimes that love is going to feel like a 'prison' to you because I will have to say "No!" more than I'm able to say "Yes!". However, just like a flower that is being grown in a greenhouse, you must develop a healthy, strong root system before you can be planted with all of the other flowers. If your root system isn't strong enough, you won't be able to fend off the weeds that want to grow around you and pull you down.

I'm so proud of the young lady you are becoming. Your path is not without some rocks and hills (your temper and self control), but I believe, with the help of God, you are strong enough to break those rocks and climb those hills. You are an amazing girl with an awesome heart for others. I am so anxious to watch God work in you and through you over the next few years. My prayer is that you will be moldable and allow Him to shape you into the woman HE wants you to be.

Happy Birthday my sweet girl :)
Love,
Mom