Golden Age - The Big 1-0

Dear Ellie,

It’s finally here – your double-digit birthday! These milestones seem to sneak up on me, but I know you’ve been counting the days till this one! As you enter your second decade of life, may I take a moment to celebrate the brave girl you’re becoming?

B – You’re my big-hearted granddaughter – the girl who’s moved by people’s stories, who deeply loves her family and friends, and who sees conflict and rushes in to restore peace. You’re passionate and emotional - big feelings overflowing from a tender, compassionate, big heart. “Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

R – My resilient grandgirl – you face hard things with wisdom and strength. As life moves forward, challenges will pop up, but you’re learning at a young age to know when to ask for help. You’re already learning strategies to help you cope and overcome, and those skills will help you for a lifetime. I’m proud of you. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

A – You’re amazingly able! You’re willing to try new things and wisely determine which ones are “Ellie” and which ones aren’t. Cheer, theater, a love of learning – yes, please! Volleyball – thank you, but no, thank you. You set goals and high standards for yourself, and you’re willing to put in the hard work to accomplish and meet them. Ellie, you are able to do hard things. “I can do all things through Him Who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

V – A goal-setter like you is visionary. You look beyond today and imagine what tomorrow can be. You’re both realistic and hopeful in what you see. Challenges, yes, but you also see opportunities for wonderful things ahead – in your relationships, in your educational journey, and in the world around you. You ask good questions and process with wisdom and optimism. “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” – Isaiah 43:19a

E – And why wait until tomorrow for the adventures to begin?! You’re eager to get the ball rolling and get stuff done! A new book, a new play, a new opportunity to learn and enjoy the people around you - what are we waiting for, people?! “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you.” – 1 Chronicles 28:20

Hey, Miss Double-Digits – yes, you with your nose in a book! I’ll always remember the David and Goliath play you wrote and had your cousins perform on this year’s Broken Bow trip. I’ll always remember the sea of stuffed animals covering your bed. I’ll always remember gently brushing out the tangles from your long, dark, curly hair. I’ll always remember the year you fell in love with Dr. Pepper. And I’ll always remember the year my brave Ellie waved goodbye to nine and embraced the big 1-0. Happy birthday!

Always loving you with all of my heart,

Milly