Dear Izzy,
Happy 13th birthday. I cannot believe that you are thirteen. It feels like only yesterday that I was welcoming my brand new baby girl into this world. And now you’re a teenager. You are all legs - I’m so jealous of those legs. You are several inches taller than me now. And that smile of yours can light up a room and is even more beautiful now that you have your braces off! Over the years your style has changed from tutus and dresses to athletic wear to now tank tops and little skirts with some Lululemon thrown into the mix. I feel like you have grown up this year right before my eyes.
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Sixth grade went by in a flash. School was different last year. You were assigned to a pod and the phrase of the year was “social distancing.” You took it in stride and you and the rest of Pod 6-3 made it fun. Your grades were stellar. You were given the opportunity to take a pre-algebra course over the summer in order to get into the honors math track. I left the decision up to you, and you chose to push yourself and it paid off. You were placed in advanced math. I’m so proud that you took on the challenge even though it meant going to school in the summer and doing lots of homework. Your drive and willingness to go the extra mile will take you far in this world. This summer you also played lots of lacrosse and field hockey, spent weeks at the beach, shopped and shopped some more, and completed Junior Life Guard camp.
And in true Izzy fashion we have had so much fun over the last few weeks celebrating this milestone birthday. It started with going to see our favorite singer, Luke Bryan, with Michelle.
Then we went on a girls’ trip with Kaitlyn to the beach. We went to all your favorite stores and restaurants. And of course we spent lots of time at the beach and pool.
And last night, I made you your favorite Italian dinner and we put thirteen candles in your strawberry shortcake.
Today you started 7th grade. I’m hoping and praying for a more normal school year for you. No matter what the years brings, I can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do!!
Be the light. Be the joy. Be the good. This crazy world needs you and is a better place with you in it.
I love you. Mom
