For Noah -- 14

It was sunny and hot outside on this morning fourteen years ago, just like it is today. Your dad and I set out for a walk around the streets of our neighbourhood, me in the early stages of labour, both of us feeling eager and excited and frankly, a little bit scared about what was about to happen to us that day. We couldn't wait to meet you, the baby we had held close in our hearts for many months already, and we hoped in earnest that we would know the right things to do to make you feel safe and happy and loved, first as we welcomed you into the world, and then as we helped you grow in all the years that would follow.

I suppose today, as you turn fourteen, I should feel a little bit scared, too. You're heading to high school in a few weeks, and your life over the next several years will be full of changes and opportunities. More and more, you will figure out for yourself what makes you happy, by finding your own path and making your own decisions. But at this moment, I don't feel scared at all. You have such a good head on your shoulders, such a kind and beautiful heart within you, that all I can feel is eagerness and excitement for what is about to happen to you.

Your dad and I have made mistakes over the years as we've learned how to be parents, and yet you have grown into a caring, responsible, wise young man who fills our hearts with pride and a love that we couldn't have even imagined on that hopeful sunny morning fourteen years ago. I hope you'll remember to be as forgiving of yourself when you make mistakes in the coming years as you've been with us. We will always be here for you as a place of safety and love (though we try now to offer it in the least embarrassing ways possible!)

Happy 14th birthday, Noah!  May your year be filled with the very best kinds of adventures.

Love, Mom  xoxo