January 19, 2007

She's 18 years old today. An adult. Well, at least legally. Emotionally, it varies. Sometimes she's very mature for her age and really seems to have it all together, other times she's like a petulant 7 year old. But then, aren't we all?

She's come a long way this year. We all have. I think we've hit the highest highs, and I know we've hit the lowest lows. All in all, I believe we are stronger for having survived it.

So ...

Happy Birthday, Sweetness! You are a remarkable young woman. You are strong and resilient. You are beautiful and funny and talented. Your intelligence is astounding. You can be anything and everything you desire. All you have to do is decide ... then DO. The whole world - the whole universe - is there for you, waiting for you to embrace it. You have such an amazing life ahead for you. You will accomplish so much. Your spirit has been through the depths and fires of hell and has now, like Phoenix, arisen from the ashes stronger and more beautiful than ever imagined. You are my hero and I am so proud to be your mother. Thank you for sharing your life with me. I love you.

January 1, 2007

Happy New Year!

We survived. We made it a whole year. Yay! Last night passed without incident. She spent the evening with her boyfriend & his family & came home on time (or close to it, anyway) - sober & happy. And she's been in a good mood today, too.

I think, although we'll still experience a little wind & rain occassionally, that our storm has passed. It's been a year and we're ok.

Thank God.