13

Wyatt, while you’ve experienced the highs and lows of branching out socially and trying to find your “just right” friend group, that outer exploration has proved both thrilling and saddening at times. Molly, you have had a first class ticket on the roller coaster that is meaningful introspection. And, while it might have been occasionally uncomfortable, you have been direct and honest in your appraisals. In all of this new exploration, it's really easy to think about all the things we AREN'T. It's much harder to acknowledge and accept all that we already ARE. It takes courage to face your flaws. And determination to make change. More importantly, it takes wisdom to see the beauty that's been there all along. 

This has been the year of the “dad joke.” Wyatt, your daily shares have had us alternately rolling our eyes or laughing out loud. I love that you’re trying to find humor in each day. Life can be so serious, but if we can look for a bit of levity and brightness, it almost always makes the days feel better. Keep finding the funny. 

Molly, your quick wit has blossomed. While you might not be looking for the next silly one-liner, you have a razor sharp sense of humor. Your comedic timing paired with your dramatic flair makes for a dangerously funny duo. You have learned to lighten your own insecurities or worries with laughter; don’t forget that funny can also be fierce.

This year, both of you have recommitted to your love of the outdoors. Whether it was jumping in the lake, exploring Niagara Falls, tromping through miles of muddy mountain trails, white water rafting in the nation’s newest national park, or (literally) hugging a tree…you haven’t lost your love of adventure. You can never outgrow what grows around us if you remember that it’s part of your growth too. 

You’ve each started to explore new passions this year. Molly, you’ve learned to love the meditation and the internal challenge of running and rowing. Remember that the biggest competition we face isn’t from others, but from within ourselves. You are learning to mine your strength and push through discomfort. That persistence will take you far. 

Wyatt, you’ve challenged yourself by recommitting to a sport you love: swimming. You continue to swim longer, push yourself harder, and attempt new skills when you could’ve taken the easy way out. Committing to work on the butterfly because “it’s hard and not a lot of other kids do it,” belies an awareness and keen observation I think you often try to hide. 

13. In some cultures, it’s an unlucky number. But, I think of it more as a transformative one. It’s a bridge from childhood, from not knowing, from being wholly sheltered…to a place of learning, change, and independence. 13 isn’t unlucky; it’s important. It’s just the next chapter, the next story yet to be written. 

I read a book this winter called The Midnight Library. In it, a librarian tells the main character that all she has to do is decide how she wants to live. Your stories are filled with endless possibilities. Don't squander them. I hope this 13th year gives you both the chance to explore, to find people who encourage and excite you, to embrace the quiet, to search out laughter, and to learn. Like the amazing Dolly said, “Find out who you are and do it on purpose.”

Happy 13th birthday to my two favorite teenagers! We might get on each other’s nerves occasionally, but you will forever be my favorite part of my own story. I can’t wait to see how you write yours. 

Love,
Mom