thirteen

sort of ironic that today is the thirteenth ... that works well with what i had planned to say today ... because in the middle of july this last summer, momma ladybug found out what thirteen looks like ...

it's beautiful, isn't it?  but at the same time, it's so complicated.  and so fragile.  and so challenging.  thirteen is the start of something entirely fresh around here - no longer a child but not yet a true teen either.  so much to explore as she finds out who she's going to be.  and as she does that, she'll discover that thirteen is so many things rolled into one ... all at once, it's insecurity and awkwardness tied together with independence and growing confidence.  it's tears and hurt feelings that go hand in hand with proud accomplishments and discovery.  never in my wildest dreams did i imagine that something that started like this ...

... would end up thirteen someday.  it blows my mind really.  but i am so comforted that she continues to have the same pureness in her heart that she had from the very first day.  her compassion defines her right to her core.  the girl who once dressed as Dumbo for Halloween as a show of solidarity for the underdog with the big ears still sheds tears today for those who are teased or put down.  and that's a tough position to navigate when you're thirteen.  in short,  i'm so very proud of my beautiful thirteen year old ladybug ... 

what i want most for my daughter

is that she be able to soar confidently in her own sky,

whatever that may be

~helen claes~

Happy 13th Birthday to wonderful you, my sweet ladybug ...