Sophia turned 13 and with that it feels like we’ve officially entered a new era of parenting – the teenage years! Fortunately she continues to take things pretty easy on us and unlike the stereotypical teenager who is embarrassed to be seen with their parents, she still seems to think we’re pretty cool…we think!

Twelve to thirteen was another big year for Sophia. She continued to assert her independence and demonstrate her responsibility whenever possible. School and a busy dance schedule keeps her days full. I love the level of pride she puts into all she does – whether it’s taking on a new writing assignment from a teacher who recognizes she’s up for a challenge or helping out with the younger kids at dance. She always gives 100% – a quality that’s stuck with her since she was little. She dealt with her first dance injury this year but she handled all the ups and downs (both physical and mental) and was rewarded with a great competition season.

We finally took the plunge this spring and set Sophia up with a phone. Much to Phil’s chagrin, she continues to be our rule follower and he hasn’t had an opportunity to revoke her privileges yet. We’ll continue to hold our breath that she enjoys our company for the next five years…and that hopefully those years go slower than the last five.

Birthday celebrations started early when Lainey & Grandpa were in tow the weekend prior. 13 also seemed like good cause for a birthday celebration with friends. Sophia’s dance friend has a birthday the same week as hers so the group celebrated at dinner together. The parents were even “allowed” to eat at the same restaurant. Sophia opted to skip the sleepover so she could wake up in her own bed on her birthday and have breakfast with her family before heading off to dance (see, she really does like us!). After dance the rest of her birthday was was spent helping me finish her birthday cake. It may have been my biggest cake fail, but we managed to salvage and it actually tasted great. After dinner candles were blown out and wishes were made.

And now for my favorite part of these birthday posts…the trip down memory lane. Wishing our newly minted teenager a wonderful year ahead!