Dear Jaden,

Happy 15th sweet girl! I never thought 15 years could go by so quickly. It seems like you should still be 2 with me carrying you around on my hip.

Even though I’d love to go back in time and watch you grow up all over again, that’s not possible. It’s impossible to go backwards, so I’ll just hold all of the memories we’ve made so far close to my heart.

You are one amazing, beautiful girl! You have became a hard worker and are compassionate about the things put in front of you. If you set your mind to a task, it always gets completed especially when it comes to farming, horseback riding, or caring for animals. You made me smile the time you snuck two abandoned baby opossums to church in your purse because you wanted to keep an eye on them.

You’ve recently proven that basketball might be a new hobby for you. I’ve enjoyed watching you play on a basketball team for the first time ever this year! You are doing so well!

I’ve also enjoyed watching you break and train your first little Quarter Horse filly. You saved your money, and you patiently waited until you found the perfect match. Your patience paid off because Dakota has definitely bonded with you! You are the best team I’ve ever seen, literally.

I’ve never seen a horse bond with a new owner so quickly. She’s so gentle and willing to learn. I hope Dallas will prove to be the same in a few years! I’m so thankful your daddy went all the way to Missouri and picked her up as a surprise for your birthday! I mentioned that I wanted to get you a little weanling, and he made it happen!

We love seeing you excel in your hobbies, but more than anything, we love your heart for the Lord! Don’t ever change for anyone. If you continue to put the Lord first in your life, you will go far. This old world can be tough, but finding strength in the Lord will always help you find success. There will be difficult times along the way, but God’s mercy and grace will carry you anywhere you need to go.

I love you, JJ. Thanks for always being willing to help out on the farm and with the kids. You are definitely one of a kind.

Love Always,

Mommy 💓

Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Jaden’s Birthday Interview

How old are you? 15

What is your favorite food? Cheeseburger from Little’s

What do you hope you never have to eat again? bananas

What is your favorite thing to do? ride horses

What is your favorite animal? horses and dogs

What makes you happy? horses

What is the best memory from when you were 14? getting two new fillies

What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 15? get my learner’s permit

What would you like to be when you grow up? horse trainer

What is your favorite song? Tasha Layton’s songs

Where is your favorite place to eat? Little’s

What is your favorite book? I don’t really have a favorite one.

Where would you like to go on vacation? Hawaii and Texas

What would you like the world to know? Jesus loves everyone!