Sweet 16...

As I sit here preparing this post, I almost cannot believe it as I type the words sixteen.

Sixteen years old.

How could it be?

 I remember once when you were just a little girl an elderly lady sat next to me on a park bench. She leaned closer, looked me in the eyes and whispered "enjoy every second for the time goes faster than you can imagine". I remember at the time laughing and silently thinking to myself 'it feels as if the sleepless nights and diaper changes will never end' as I watched you toddled across the playground with your brothers chasing after you that warm summer day.

And now here you are... sweet sixteen.

And all I can do is think of how grateful I am for every single second of those sixteen years... and how grateful I am that God gave me you.

I want to thank you Addisyn for all that you have taught me. I know a mother is supposed to be the one to teach their child, and yet I cannot help but to stand in awe of the way you 'get it' more often than most adults. I know you have heard it many times before, but you are wise beyond your years and your faith is the kind that leaves the rest of the world wishing they could one day get there. Thank you for sharing that with me and thank you for challenging me to reach a little farther, love a little deeper, and give a little more.

I adore you my precious first born daughter and I couldn't be more proud of who you are and how you choose daily to live your life. My prayer for you is that you always stay as close to the Lord as you are today and that your mind never becomes filled with the crud and the lies that the world will constantly try to send your way. I pray that you live out those dreams in your heart and that you stay true to your purpose. Keep living for Him Addie, and the rest of your days will be as sweet as the first sixteen.

Happy 16th Birthday, you are so loved.