Happy 17th Birthday R!!

Happy Birthday R! I know that you will probably never read this and that you are not one for your mother's sentimentalities but here we go anyway.



My entire adult life you have been there and we have grown up together.



I was not always the best mother, young and inexperienced, and for the things I did wrong I am sorry.



For the things I did right we should thank God.



The years have gone by so fast.



This birthday seems to make me sadder than the rest.



Maybe because in a year you will be 18 years old.



And in a year and half you will go on to make your own life.



I am proud of the man that you are growing up to be.



We still have our moments (because you are still a teenager :)



But you have been a fairly easy child to parent.



Of course, if I taught you to cook or do laundry that might help you some. :)



I am so thankful that I have gotten the opportunity to be your mom.



Happy Birthday! I love you with all my heart.