Today, I became the mother of an eleven-year-old. I knew she would grow up, and I imagined it would feel like it had happened just as fast as people said it would. Even though I believed them, it somehow still feels like all I did was blink!
This pre-teen season is undoubtedly going to require different tools and tricks as a parent. There will probably be less of what I felt like I excelled at; less of doing things with and for her, but a lot more holding space, listening and creating a safe place for her to grow and discover. Accepting that when she is hurt, it's probably not the playground boo-boo variation quickly cured by my mom's kisses.
For a decade, I worked hard to raise a little girl who was brave, confident, and had a mind of her own. So imagine my surprise when I realized I had, in fact, raised a brave, confident girl with a mind of her own!
I suppose she'll spend the next decade reminding me of exactly what I've done… In the meantime, here's one final slice of ten:
What are you most afraid of?
Honestly, probably just losing anyone I love. I mean, yeah, I'm scared of spiders, but not as much as that. And bungee jumping.
Who is your best friend?
Mom. I really can't choose. How many can I pick? Morgan, Lin, Carmen, Eddy. And obviously others.
What is your favorite thing to do?
Soccer, art, and watch TV.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
An actress, famous fußball player, or even just own my own clothes shop.
What is your favorite food?
I love lots of things! I just like food. Except for veggies.
What do you do really well?
Math. Fashion. Make friends. (Editor's note: When Olive was 3, I asked her what she did really well. Her answer at the time was, "eat playdough". I like the direction things are going.)
What makes you laugh?
Sometimes you and Sebastian make me laugh. My friends. Weird people on the street make me laugh.
What is the best time of the day?
Breakfast.
What do you love to learn about?
Animals. Biology.
Where do you like to go?
Gleisdreieck Park. It's so fun.
What is your favorite book?
That's a hard one! Anne Frank, Mr. Stink, Harry Potter.
If you had one wish, what would it be?
A baby brother… or sister. I would wish for a unicorn, but that never works. Or, to speak every language in the world, then I could get more friends.
What do you like to do with your family?
Celebrate! Anything! Christmas, Halloween, birthdays, the first time a baby poops!
We love celebrating with you, too! <3
So, to my Snoedel on her 11th birthday:
Every birthday you celebrate, I celebrate because having you was the ultimate gift. Watching you grow has been one of my life's greatest joys. You've taken on incredible challenges with a smile, and I couldn't be more proud. You embody courage, and I will do my best to continue to model bravery, kindness, and curiosity (even though I'm starting to feel like the student becomes the master and I could learn a thing or two from you, now!).
This next decade, I promise to continue to support and love you unconditionally as you explore this world, navigate who you are becoming, and form ideas around what's important to Olive. When you fall, I will do my best to offer a soft landing and a non-judgmental ear to hear you.
And while you and I made one heck of a dazzling duo for the last ten, Sebastian nailed his audition as co-star, and I am so happy to share the stage with him. You are one incredibly loved Snoedel.
Keep shining, baby girl. We got your back.
XO,
Mama
