Happy 11th birthday Camryn!

Dear Camryn,
Yet again, another year has flown by.  You are ELEVEN now...officially a "tween."  I think they call you this because you are kind of stuck beTWEEN being a kid, and a teen.  Being this age means there are many things that are *almost* within your grasp, while your daddy and I, holding tight to your ankles while you stretch and reach for these things, are desperately trying to keep you little.

You did slowly begin your transition this year, though.  You occasionally stay home alone...just you and your pup, while I take your sister to piano.  This weekly tradition, as it's become, is good practice for you, as you grow old enough to do this more often, and become more independent.  At first, you were nervous, counting the minutes until we returned home, but now you look forward to your alone time, and all of the choices and decisions those 35 minutes hold.

You've also become a leader.  You are a model student in your Acro 3 class, holding your own with some of the best performers at the studio.  You have strengthened your body and your resolve, and have mastered tricks and skills that most kids never do.  You also became a leader in your school this year.  The younger kids look up to you as a 5th grade Ambassador, because they know you consistently make good choices, and will always help them if they are in need.  Your teachers know they can count on you too, and your peers follow your example.  It is so fun to see you take on these roles.

With eleven comes a time for big transitions.  Soon, you will take all that you've learned in your six years at Deer Creek, and travel onward to middle school.  You will have more choices, make more decisions, and meet more friends.  You will learn so much, not only about academics, but about life.  Though I feel a little wistful, wishing you could stay little a bit longer, I am also stirring with anticipation and excitement, because I can see what is ahead of you.  I know you, and I know that you will thrive in middle school.  Your intelligence, independence, and leadership will take you far, and you will be a part of great things.

So celebrate heartily, this turning eleven.  For great things are in store for you...VERY great things.  I am honored and privileged to be a part of it all, and support you along the way.

I love you, sweet girl.  My eleven year old.  My "tween."  You are amazing.
Happy birthday from your biggest fans,
Mom and Daddy