Dear Jaden,

Happy 18th! I never thought I would write those words this quickly, but here we are. You are all grown up and ready to figure out the world independently. Of course, your dad and I will be right here by your side, providing any support you may need. I have had the best time going on college searches with you. I am thankful you see the importance of furthering your education.

I know you will never settle for a college or career that is not right for you. You are a strong and determined girl, and I have never seen you give up on your dreams and goals. Even though there will be a sense of sadness surrounding us when you leave for college, peace will also be present. I know you rely on the Lord to lead and guide you, so I do not have to worry.

You have already accomplished more in your eighteen years than most. You have worked nights at an emergency vet clinic for over a year now. You gave your all to your high school volleyball team while taking college classes your last two years of high school. You plan and facilitate equine farm days as well as give riding lessons, and somehow, you still always make time for your family and friends.

You recently showed how much strength you have by effortlessly handling your major knee surgery. Of course, I was nervous about your surgery and recovery, but your calm personality has kept me grounded. I am thankful for your willpower, but your kindness does not go unnoticed. You are always willing to help out in any way that you can. Thank you! I probably don’t say that enough, but I am sincerely grateful.

Don’t ever lose your determination and confidence. Those two things are what make you unique. It’s rare to find a girl as focused on what’s best for not only herself but also what’s in the best interest of those around you. You never sugarcoat things. I have never found that boldness, but I am very thankful you have. Yes, you are bold, but you get your point across in a way that doesn’t undermine others. You consider their feelings by knowing it would do more harm by keeping them in the dark on what you feel is best in any given situation. I love that about you. Keep pushing forward, sweet girl. I will be by your side along the way. I look forward to watching you grow into adulthood and am thankful to have a front-row seat as the Lord leads you.

Love You Always and Forever,

Mom

Jaden’s Birthday Interview

How old are you? 18

What is your favorite food? Quesadilla from Taco Bell

What is your least favorite food? Blue Cheese

What is your favorite thing to do? Hang out with friends

What is your favorite animal? Dogs and horses

What makes you happy? Friends, Jesus, and shopping

What is the best memory from when you were 17? Spending the week at Liberty with friends

What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 18? Skydive

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

What is your favorite song? God Did by Sons of Sunday

Where is your favorite place to eat? Taco Bell

What is your favorite book? Don’t really have one

Where would you like to go on vacation? Hawaii or anywhere with a beach

What do you want the world to know? If you are aiming for success but leave God out, you will never reach it.

Joshua 1:8 – This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then though shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.