Dear Halle,

It was a weird birthday for me not being with you! (probably for you too). I did not like it one bit. It’s much more fun to be together. I did send you a birthday in a box. It had a brownie mix, some decorations, a few treats and a gift card. Last weekend you and Lauren took the bus to the mall and went birthday shopping and to see Black Panther II. It was your first bus trip into Ft. Collins! Dad and I came up for the football game a few days after your birthday and took you to dinner at Ginger and the Baker.

What a year it’s been. I seriously cannot believe that a mere 365 (ish) days ago baby Finn was born, Carlie and Dan moved to Colorado and you were starting your last semester of HS. So much has changed since then! There has been a lot of adjusting for both of us as you moved to Ft. Collins and started at CSU. I can tell you’ve learned so much, and I’ve been very proud of the “adulting” you’ve done this semester. Taking care of your medical needs, getting your passport renewed, scheduling appointments, found a hair stylist and got your hair cut, etc. Living in a shoe box (as you call the dorms) isn’t easy. There isn’t a lot of privacy, and that can get wearing. Keep going–you are doing a great job.

Watching you in Marching Band has been such a highlight. Even with the terrible football team, I’ve loved coming to every game. The amount of time and work you put in is staggering. I’m so glad you gave it a go. It was such a fun way to be involved and fill your time with positive things. GO RAMS!

In this last year of your teenage-hood I know the learning and growing is only going to come faster and faster. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, try new things, and be brave. One of my favorite quotes is by Ralph Waldo Emerson. He said, “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” I love this. As we pursue helping others, finding our passion, and staying true to ourselves, we will have a life well lived. I’m so very happy you are a part of mine.

Love, Mom