Dear Mercedes,
Sixteen is hard to fathom, but also not, because you’ve changed and matured so much over the past year. It’s been a big one - really settling into high school, figuring out what interests you most, joining the gym, amazing concerts (hello, Taylor Swift - best night of our lives!), first love, amazing friendships and experiences - I’m so thrilled to watch the rest of your life unfold in front of you. It won’t always be easy, there will be challenges that you’ll face - but I can tell by how much you’ve grown that you’ll face them head on with resilience and strength, because that’s just the kind of person you are. And no matter what, I will always be there to walk beside you.
It’s a special thing when your kids actually become your friends. I absolutely (sometimes) miss the early days of our life together - especially when it was just you and me on my first maternity leave. We did lots of snuggling and playdating and adventuring and watching endless reruns of Third Watch. In some ways, we grew up together since I was still in my 20s when you were born! And I loved seeing the wonder of the world through your eyes. But now… now is something special. I still get to watch with amazement as you become more independent and resourceful, and witness you figuring out your path in life - but I also get to hang out with someone that always makes me laugh. Whether we’re going for a drive and singing loudly in the car, or snuggling on the couch watching a sad movie and crying, or finishing each other’s song lyrics in the kitchen, or laughing at your father’s ridiculous jokes… there’s basically nothing that makes me happier than experiencing joy with you by my side.
Thank you for being you. Thank you for making me a mom. Thank you for forgiving my mistakes. Thank you for always remembering that I’ve got your back. Thank you for being honest with me. Thank you for letting me into your life. And thank you, thank you, thank you for being the person that you are. I couldn’t be prouder.
Love,
Mum (aka Bruh)
