Dear Holden,
Today, you are officially a teenager (despite you feeling like one for a while now)! I can so vividly remember all of your earlier milestones – the day we found out about your impending arrival, the day you were born, the first time your big sisters saw you, your first day of school… and now here you are, growing into this amazing young man (who happens to be taller than me), graduating elementary school and choosing your classes for your first year of high school next year.
In some ways, you are much more independent than your sisters – just by nature of being the third kid. There are some people who say third kids tend to raise themselves, and I can see it – we’re definitely more lax about some of the rules, you have lots of freedom to roam the neighbourhood with your friends, etc. But then in some ways, of course, you’re still my baby (and always will be, no matter how deep your voice gets or how much facial hair you have). But in any case, it’s such a joy watching you grow. You’re polite (especially in your oddly formal text messages, which always crack me up), and respectful (including at school), and smart, and kind. You also love a good fart joke and laughing when we tease your sisters, and you can get VERY competitive at any sort of games. Most of all, I love seeing you interact with your friends. You have an awesome core group of kids who are all well-mannered and sweet, and treat each other with compassion, which I appreciate so much.
I am so excited for the rest of this year ahead for you – Grade 8 trips and graduation and even more freedom as you prepare for high school next year. It’s hard to believe it’s happened so fast, but I know you are more than ready to face life and new responsibilities and freedoms head-on. And no matter what, we are here to walk with you through any challenges that you may face.
Happy birthday to the best Christmas present we’ve ever had.
Love,
Mum
