Dear Jaden,

How are you already old enough to drive a truck and pull a horse trailer? How do these things happen so quickly? I know you have been waiting to be able to haul your own horses for several years now. Well, baby girl, as you know, the wait is over!

I’m so proud of all you have accomplished in life so far. You are quite the athlete and are so competitive. Whether you are on the basketball court, volleyball court, or learning to barrel race horses, you always give it your all.

Your 16th birthday was the best day even if you took a tumble and ended up at the ER. Crazy things happen sometimes, but you have proven you know what to do when life throws punches. You get up and keep going. You don’t let things get you down.

We are alike in so many ways. Horses make you happier than having extra cash laying around. You are strong willed and know how to get the job done. But, we are also different. You have so much more confidence than I do. You never give up. In a respectful way, you don’t let others hold you back. You are kind, sensitive, and helpful, but you get out there and do your best no matter what. I’m so thankful you are growing up to be a confident woman in this world that can be so harsh.

I know you get your strength from the Lord. He will never fail you nor forsake you. I hope you continue to take your strength from Him as you train your new “heart” horse, Reba!! You are perfect for each other. I can’t wait to watch you grow closer together and form that unbreakable bond. I hope this year is your best yet!

Love you forever and always,

Mom 💙

Galatians 6:9 – And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Jaden’s Birthday Interview

How old are you? 16
What is your favorite food? Japanese
What do you hope you never have to eat? broccoli
What is your favorite thing to do? ride horses or play volleyball
What is your favorite animal? dogs and horses
What makes you happy? my dogs, horses, and baking
What is the best memory from when you were 15? getting to hang out with my friends during sports
What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 16? go to Hawaii, the Caribbean, or run my first barrel race on Reba
What would you like to be when you grow up? I’m not sure. Most likely something to do with horses.
What is your favorite song? I don’t really have one right now.
Where is your favorite place to eat? Yummy Yummy or Poe’s BBQ
What is your favorite book? Horse Tales from Heaven by Rebecca E. Ondov
Where would you like to go on vacation? Hawaii
What do you want the world to know? Jesus loves you and everything happens for a reason.