Dear Avery,
Seventeen years … time has absolutely flown by and truthfully, I’m equally sad and excited for this time in your life. I miss little Avery so much, but I’m in love with 17 year old Avery just as much! It’s an odd time of life to be your mom.
Obviously, I’ll probably always remember this year as the birthday where I had cancer. I’ve had the most incredible amount of guilt about anything that this awful disease has taken from you. Honestly, Covid has probably disrupted your life more, but it’s still always in the back of my mind because you deserve the easiest path in life. You’ve worked so hard.
Avery, you have always been such an easy child to parent. For so long, you were shy to the outside world and completely open with your family. But, this year especially, I’ve seen you completely open up and your personality explode. It has been my joy to see you living life to the fullest. Time with your friends, your incredible passion for music, taking so much responsibility with driving, and always so helpful to me when I need it. There isn’t anything that I would change about you – God has blessed me beyond measure.
Going into your senior year, I already get teary with all the “lasts” that are coming our way. I know I’ve warned you for years that I will be a basket case all year. That’s still true … just go with the flow please. I’ll try not to embarrass you to death. (Thankfully, your best friends’ moms are as bad as me, so you’ll be in good company.)
Speaking of senior year, live your best life (safely, please). Reach for the stars and take advantage of every opportunity. More than anything, live in the moment and soak it all in!!! You know that I won’t miss anything – no matter what, and I’m always right beside you for anything you need.
I love you so much! Happy birthday, sweet Avery,
Mom
