My dearest oldest daughter,

Today I sat in line as you filled out paperwork and received your driver’s license. It was absolutely surreal playing patty cake with Mary Alice and handing over my credit card to pay for your driver’s license. I walked behind you as you smiled for the camera, so beautiful and so kind. You thanked everyone we interacted with, just as you always have. You smiled and said “hello” to all around you. You shine.

You’ve become an excellent driver. You ignore your cell phone, something I never had to even think about. You carefully look around, aware of the importance of what you are doing. Thank you. You make a mama’s heart proud. I have more peace about you driving that I ever thought possible.

Worrying about you on the playground and keeping your teeth brushed and sticking with schedules felt so huge. They were at the time. But now the curtain is being pulled back, and a whole new level of worry wants to creep in.

But the worry is quickly replaced. Because I know you are His. Your heart belongs so firmly to our God. You’ve always had a solid, unswerving faith. It has been a gift to our family and a reflection of your earthly daddy. I love you so very much.

I’ll never forget today. You drove me to my sonogram and watched your littlest brother dance around. We took an impromptu trip to the mall with Mary Alice and ate way too much pasta. Thank you for sharing today with me. I will treasure it always. You are my baby. You are my daughter. And you are a friend to me. I’ll always be your mamma first. And I’ll fuss when the laundry isn’t put away. But I’ll hold the times close to my heart when you ask for advice and you tell me your thoughts.

I love you dearly and I am ever so proud of you.

You have the heart of a lion and you are becoming a great saint.

Take me with you.

Love always,

Mom