I know that the middle school years aren’t necessarily the ones that most adults reminisce fondly about — both from the perspective of their own memories of their time as a middle schooler AND/OR from the perspective of raising kids during that time period.

But.

This past year has been a joy for E. And for me watching her grow and find the things she is truly passionate about.

From A honor roll all 3 quarters (and on her way to a 4th!) to new sports (tennis) and new activities (select choir, quiz bowl, performing in the musical), to still participating in the things she loves (synchronized swimming, trying out and getting into the talent show, orchestra)…it’s been a jampacked year. AND she was nominated by her teachers to be one of the student leaders to help incoming 5th graders as they get their first look at middle school life.

Not to mention the amazing group of friends she has surrounding her. She has her core group of friends she’s had for years plus some new, wonderful friends she either met in synchro or middle school through shared classes and interests.

So yes, she’s thriving.

Of course there were challenges this year: getting covid, moving, adapting to more homework while juggling so many activities…but E has continually impressed me with her ability to adapt and accomplish the goals she sets for herself.

I know that things can change, especially during these “middle” years. Things that one day seem amazing turn into a disaster the next day. But I am loving the fact that the good days far outnumber the bad and can’t say enough of how proud I am of the young woman E is becoming. I am so honored to be her mom and be able to cheer her on from the sidelines as she basks in the glow of the spotlight. The place I’ve learned she LOVES being. Watch out world.

Now for a few other quotes and memories from the year.

After moving into the new house, still getting used to where things are:

“I don’t like the lazy Jane.”

(Referring to the lazy Susan)

After returning home from her first babysitting job:

“I forgot about the getting paid part!” 

Still learning about the fun world of accessories… opening a present of a purse with a detachable strap. 

“Oh it’s a box thingy & a belt.”

Like her brother, realizing that there’s a whole menu available to order from at restaurants, the default doesn’t just have to be a burger or a pizza.

After ordering a half rack of ribs & finishing, “I could have gone for the full rack.”

Watching Frosty the Snowman. E realizes the main character’s name is Karen. 

“Karen? Her name is Karen? Oh no. But she’s the opposite of a Karen!”

I still find it funny how neither kid has any concept of the ages of people once they hit 20 or so.

Playing a game in the car. E is thinking of a person. Hints:

Famous male singer. 

About our ages 40-50 

Answer: Sir Paul McCartney

(40 - 50???)

How I’ve taught her my favorite “F” word and how she uses it perfectly.

“It’s fine. It’s just a little thing that I noticed.”

(Said when things are not, in fact, fine.)

Giving me notes on how to not sound “old”:

“When you say ‘program’ it makes it sound old.”

(Referring to tv shows)

And I’ll never forget the day E said this to me. I have always found her to be an introspective, observant, empathic person. I see it in her writings (songs, poetry, stories) and her artwork. But when she said this to me I realized just how empathetic she is.

“Do you ever feel like it’s super loud when it’s quiet? Like you can feel all the things that the person WANTS to say?”

E, I know that you will keep exploring what is out there in the world and find your space. I also know, without a shadow of a doubt, that if you can’t find your space you will make your own. Don’t lose that confidence and determination.