I'm not sure what to think of 12. She's been teetering on acting like a little adult for a while now. She's good at being carefree and comes out beaming when she's had time to venture into her most joyful utopias.
We've been gearing up for the ups and downs of teenhood for a while, and we plan to maintain our momentum. We're probably extra blessed in that she seems to have a strong, admirable moral intuition. She tests boundaries as any kid will do, but only to seek meaning and clarity on her purpose. And God has a hold of her heart, which provides such comfort.
She likes to have her parents around, even after we've done something cringey. She values some sarcasm but doesn't feel her little brother is quite ready to use it, so she has many understood unspokens between just us. She's an amazing daughter, big sister, and friend. I know Zane and Hendrix are extra thankful for her too.
Vanessa, we're very thankful for you! Happy 12th birthday!!
