The kids turned 16 today. It's hard to believe. I often find myself watching the many photos that pop up on the iPads throughout the house and struggle to imagine how quickly they've grown up. This past year was, from where I sit, a pretty substantial year for them. One filled with growth, maturation and an evolution of their individual character and identities. And I could not be prouder of both of them.
Lauren's year has been spent getting more and more independence and confidence in herself. She's embraced theater tech, attended a related conference, made and sustained friendships with both girls and a couple of 'boyfriends' too, and she's blossomed and come out of her shell in significant ways. I find myself consciously recognizing how very strong her will and resolve can be in all she puts her mind to. I have to occasionally remind myself that I can 'let go' of feeling like I need to to everything, or even anything, for her. She's got this.
Tommy's grown into a young man, with strong goals, character and a good natured but slightly mischievous sense of humor and adventure. He's made friends in my neighborhood and through school. He's struggled with academics but is making a renewed effort for his sophomore year. And he's remained a sincerely sweet and kind hearted young man.
They've both adapted to and embraced my relationship with Jennifer and I consider it to be a healthy and positive representation for them of something sincerely positive and supportive between two people. I think they feel completely at home with us, feel accepted and supported, and loved. And that sets the tone for the year ahead for all of us.
We (the kids, I and Linda) had dinner tonight to celebrate their birthdays. Kyoto Palace. It's an annual outing, and one of two instances where we do things together. In all honestly there's been times I've struggled with it for various reasons but it's also right in line with what I want to promote and encourage for them as far as being mature and setting aside differences out of respect and a greater purpose. Their well being.
I have high hopes for us all for the year to come.
Happy Birthday kids. You mean more to me than I ever imagined possible, and as you become young adults, I hope to give you the freedom to do so without constraint or judgment. I may push you for what I believe is best for you, but I'll give you an increasing degree of autonomy to make the choices you'll make based on your own aspirations too.