I have a second TEENAGER!!!! 🤯 Laela is officially 13!
Behold 🙌 Her last twelve months in photos!
It has been a hugely shaping year for Laela. Her grade seven year was one she loved. She loves the high school. She loves working at the concession. She loves volleyball. She loves the computers in the library. She loves home ec. She loves youth. She loves later bedtimes, more freedom, and older friends.
She endured some bullying that I recognize is par for the course as kids grow and change and move through junior high, but it was hard to watch her confidence beat down a little. For a good while there, she flip-flopped between overalls and dresses until she got teased enough that she changed her tune. That was a tough one for me, but conveniently, she has of course proved that fashion is the least important detail of hers. She is incredible all on her own, regardless of her outfit.
Laela is a total go-to for so many things. She is responsible and playful. Hardworking while being singsongy. She can rise to just about any occasion, and when she can’t she gives some really, really soft hugs. I’m not sure anyone has softer cheeks than her.
I can confidently say that Laela is the total package. She is everything you want your teenaged daughter to be. And she will be the total package as an adult when the time comes. Her character speaks loudly, and it is GOOD. Does she have struggles? Yes. Is that normal and allowed? Double yes. Is she constantly seeking and learning and aiming for greatness? All the way she is!
This girl right here 🙌
She’s one to watch 💜
Happy birthday, dear girl. I’d relive your wild delivery every day if I had to in order to keep you 💜