17 Years

Dear Sam,

How did you go from this--

 to this in the blink of an eye?

It's hard to believe you're 17! This year will be bittersweet - full of "lasts:" Our last summer together, our last Christmas, your last year of high school.... This time next year we'll probably know where you're going on your mission. It's happening way too fast!

I'm proud of you and the good things you do. I'm glad you're a good friend, a great violinist and vocalist, a funny actor. Thanks for being a great student. I know you'll be an amazing missionary. Let's make this your best year so far!

Happy Birthday, Sam!

I love you,
Mom