To Eli on your fourteenth birthday,

Time truly is an unusual thing. I promise we just celebrated your thirteenth birthday, but here we are again - another trip around the sun. And what a year it has been!

You began and are almost done with your first year of high school. You have blown us away with your maturity, diligence, and rising confidence. There is no greater joy as a parent than seeing your child step into who they are, and that is exactly what we get to see every day. We love watching you thrive and shine. I have to say I truly look up to you - in more ways than one. In all the change and transition you have experienced over the past few years, you have not let it defeat or define you. Instead, you have risen to the occasion and come out stronger on the other side. You amaze me continually - with your giant heart, in the kindness and love you show to others, in your generosity, and in your growing faith. I've always described you as pure of heart, and to be honest, I see it more and more with the passing years.

I pray in this next year, you continue to find and pursue your passions - whether it's music, running, basketball, art - or something else. It's been so fun to watch you try new things and grow and excel. I pray the Lord guides and directs your every step, leading you into His giant plans for your life. You're not quite sure what's ahead - and that's okay! I pray you enjoy the new opportunities you've been given, without pressure. I pray you seek the Lord with all Your heart and continue growing in your faith and understanding of Him. I am in awe of what the Lord has done in you, and I am expectant of what He will continue to do.

Eli, it is an honor to be your mom. You bless my heart daily, and I hope you know how proud I am of you. I love you MORE and MOST! You'll tell me that's not true, but you'll never win this argument. Happiest birthday, my sweet boy. I pray this is your BEST year yet.

All my love,

Mom