Baby #1 Turns 12!

Summer after Natalie's 11th birthday

Looking grown up and fancy at Steve's Wedding

12 years old today

Dear Natalie,

I wrote you a letter last year the day before your birthday and honestly, I don't remember writing it. When I decided to go back to school for my masters degree, birthday letters took a backseat. I am going to do my best to get back into the habit because I want to remember who you were at this age. 

It was a big year for you...middle school. At first a bit nervous, you soon loved the structure of middle school and making new friends. Although there was drama at times, for the most part, your year was great. You are an independent student who works hard for your grades. Science was tricky for you, but you learned how to use a study guide and how to keep your things organized with minimal help from mom and dad. Your usual school attire was jeans and baggy sweatshirts. After pulling your hair into a pony tail, you were off by 7am to catch the bus everyday. 

You gave swimming on a team a try this year as well. Sports are still something you aren't too invested in, but you see the importance of being involved instead of just coming home to sit around. Both Daddy and I are hoping you would like to continue swimming, but would love for you to try whatever else you are interested in. 

Art continues to be important in your life. You are always creating. Drawing. Doodling. It has become a creative outlet for you and you are good at it. Another interest along with art has been baking. Grandma got you a lot of baking stuff for Christmas this year and in learning how to make different things in the kitchen. 

I think the last biggest shift you made this year was going from being babysat to being the babysitter. After taking the babysitting course through community education, you have really taken on helping out with Evie and the kids in the neighborhood. You look for fun things to do with young kids and are very responsible with anyone you are watching. Matt and Morgan loved having you to watch your cousins and the neighbors love having a sitter on their street. You are patient, kind, responsible and caring...which makes me so proud.

My girl. You are growing up and we could not be happier with the person you are growing into. It's quite amazing. You are funny and even have a little of my witty personality shining through. You lead with your heart and are always trying to learn new things. 

I love you honey and I hope you had an amazing 12th birthday.

Mommy.