My Dearest Claire:
Happy, Happy Golden 14th Birthday!
I don't even know where to begin? You, my youngest, fierce, bold, bright, loyal, tenacious amazing young woman--Happy, Happy Birthday, Sweetheart.
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How did we get here? Weren't you just teaching us how to climb the Monkey Bars at Washington School?
And running through the park with your big brother and sister?
And hanging out with Aunt Lisa?
And Grandma Bonnie?
And making funny faces with me?
The truth is, you're growing up faster than any of us realized, and are quickly becoming an unbelievable force to be reckoned with--which makes my heart swell and my imagination go wild with all of the possibilities of what's in store for our Claire Bear.
*****
This eighth grade year has brought some really great fun. You kicked off the summer by heading to Washington DC with your classmates to see monuments, the White House, Arlington National Cemetery, Gettysburg and so much more. It was a trip to remember for certain.
Followed by one of your favorite spots on earth...Kitaki...practicing archery and all of the leadership skills that make camp and the incredible human beings that participate a magical, sacred space to be for a week.
And then, the AJR concert where you sang your head off and reminded us of the power of sticking to your craft, writing lyrics that speak to your soul, and making the most of the moment.
And now, 8th grade...you're back on the Student Council, competing with the Quiz Bowl team, serving mass, continuing piano lessons, enjoying Book Bowl practices, preparing to take the high school entrance exam, getting ready to start the Speech team and with every spare moment crocheting the heck out of anything you can get your hands on both for clothing and for awesome gifts for your friends.
As I watch you move through the world, I'm struck at how thoughtful, intentional and aware you are of how things should be and why....you are an advocate for anyone who is in need and you're constantly asking how things can change for the good and what you can do to be a part of the transformation.
You are stubborn just like your dad and when the two of you get attached to an idea, it is hard to get either of you to back down. But underneath the fierce feist is a person who is guided by a North Star that is like no other--and it is not only admirable, it is inspirational. You make each of us want to be a better person, right after we want to kill you for arguing the point to death :)
Beyond your brilliant mind and courageous heart is a creativity and drive toward the beautiful that is unmatched. It has been so fun to watch you crochet bags, animals, blankets, beanies, science and history projects and a million other amazing choices for the world.
And so, as you embark upon the next chapter, please know that we're all rooting for you and are excited for your upcoming Confirmation, 8th grade graduation, entry into Duchesne Sacred Heart high school, and maybe to your chagrin, being with you for all four years of high school while Sam and Kate are in college.
You make us laugh, scream, pull our hair out, dance with joy, and remember that life is for the living. From all of us to you, Happy Golden Birthday, Claire Bear! We love you.
All my love, Mom
