Thursday, July 30, 2009

Twelve and totally terrific


















Keaton’s birthday is today; she’s 12 years old and she is coming out of a really tough year. Sixth grade is murder on girls…and their mothers. Friends, body image, boys; once confident and full of life, these girls seem to lose themselves during this uncertain time and most never recover.

And Keaton has been no exception.

Where she does seem to differ from many girls her age is the state of her heart. This girl, this slowly emerging woman-to-be, has a heart for people, all kinds of people. She hurts for them, celebrates with them, listens for and hears their needs while others are oblivious. She has a wonderful sense of fairness and tolerance, a champion of the underdog no matter the cost.

As she enters this next year in school and in life, I want her to have hope. I want her to take all that’s happened in the last year and tuck it away, not simply to forget about it, but to use it as a spring board. She has so much to offer this world. People are beginning to notice her uniqueness. They’re going to need her.

Happy birthday, sweet girl. You are the one amazing 12 year old and you make me the proudest mom in the world.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well, ya made me cry. Happy Birthday, Keaton! I have a DD who will be entering 6th grade this fall; hmm, things are gonna be difficult, eh? Already showing signs here.......

Anonymous said...

As usual Devin you have written just the right thing. She is wonderful and very special. We love her dearly.

BD

Gina said...

Happy Birthday Keaton!! We all love you so, so much and are so proud of the beautiful young lady you are.

XXOOXXOO

Uncle David & Auntie Gina and kids.

Anonymous said...

Happy belated Birthday Keaton! It was so good seeing you in GA! Now you'll have to make a trip to Vermont! It is beautiful here-no snow yet :)
Love you all
Jeni

MKHKKH said...

I remember that year to this day. Such a very hard time. I am glad she has solid roots and a big heart. She will go far, even with a few bumps in the road. Good thing she has such a good mom to guide her!