Today You Are Thirteen

Dear Jett,

Happy 13th Birthday! You're officially a teenager! I was reviewing the past 13 years in my head and thought about how quickly you've grown and how it really does feel like yesterday that you were a fluffy-haired towhead, who loved to love and laugh. And I guess things really don't change all that much except maybe the hair and the fact that you now are taller than me. Man, you really grew this past year. 

This year you really put a lot into learning more about cooking and practicing it every chance you got. I'm not gonna lie, I really like the benefits. I think something I'll always cherish, however, is just cooking with you. Making a meal or a dessert together is one of my favorite things we do. I never really got to do that with my mom; cooking wasn't supposed to be a fun thing in my house growing up, but I am really happy it is in our house. I love trying a new recipe together and taking pride in our final product.

Something I have always loved about you is how gosh darn funny you are. I love your infectious smile and laugh. I love your wit and sense of humor. I love that you can make me smile and laugh no matter what mood I'm in. I love that your humor uplifts and brings joy, and with that I see your empathy and love for others. Your level of humility and kindness is something many adults don't quite grasp. It's such a gift to all those around you. You are a good brother and such a good son. You put others before yourself and are sensitive to other people's needs.

I love that you're adventurous and always up for trying new things. I love how persistent and driven you can be whether it's schoolwork, trying to jump the wake, or learning a new computer program. You are so smart and so capable. I rarely have to get on you about homework, and every time I check your grades, you always have A's.   

Jett, you're such a good kid and a good person and I've known that since the day you were born. I remember holding you in my arms, staring into your chubby little newborn face, and recognizing your spirit, like I've known you forever. I love being your Mom. I love that you still want me to tuck you in at night. I love that you still want hugs and kisses and that you still tell me you love me no matter what setting we're in. 

I want all the things for you, Jett. I want you to always feel joy and love. I want you to go out into the world one day and spread your goodness and discover everything you want for yourself. I love that you have a testimony of the gospel and that you have a relationship with your Heavenly Father. I hope you continue to cultivate that and always look to Him for guidance and support. I hope you always know how much I love you. I will always be here for you and I will always love you no matter what. Life is hard sometimes and you will struggle with things that will make you want to turn inward, but I want you to know that even if you don't want to talk about it, I am always here to sit with you and hug you. I will always be your Mama and you will always be my sweet Jett.

Happy Birthday, teenage Jett.

I love you, 

Mom