Reagan,

It seems like only yesterday you were a baby, dependent on me for your every need. And now, here you are on the brink of adulthood; a mature, headstrong young woman who knows who she is and what she wants.

I know your journey has been far from easy. You have had your fair share of struggles and challenges. One of the hardest things about being a mom is not being able to solve your child’s problems or, even harder yet, having to stand back when you know you shouldn’t solve her problems. One of the best things about being a mom is watching your child come into her own. That is what I have been so proud to witness. I saw and shared in your struggles, your successes, your heartbreaks, and your joys. Watching you climb those mountains was not always easy but, wow, when you reached the top, it sure was impressive.

I hope you see what I see, Reagan. One of my greatest wishes for you is YOU also take pride in how far you have come. That, like me, YOU also have faith in how far you can go. For all the excitement and hope of graduation and beyond, one thing is certain: there are more challenges ahead. But in the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” No matter where life takes you, what path you choose or what fate drops at your feet – you have got it in you, Sweet Pea. You can do just about anything.

All my love,
Mom

​