Sweet sixteen:

So my birthday was last Wednesday. I had an amazing day hearing from everyone, going to church and hanging out with some close friends that night. The next morning was one that I had been waiting for for a long time- I got my license. After that, my parents followed me to Cracker Barrel where we ate breakfast. Shortly after, i left for school, while my mom was freaking out. To my surprise, I've gotten to go do a lot of things since then! It's been great not having to rely on others to get around. But also, I realize that I am truly by myself now out there, and it's a huge responsibility to pay attention and be defensive.

On another note, this weekend was amazing as well. Friday was the 'family' party at my house. It was nice seeing them all together again. I got many great gifts, but one particular present was completely unexpected and brought me to tears. My aunt told me to open this small, white box last. Finally, I opened it, finding a beautiful jewelry set including a topaz necklace along with a topaz ring lined with diamonds. With them was a letter written by my aunt. It basically said that the jewelry belonged to my great-grandmother Grace. It went on to say that she was also born in November (the topaz is the November birthstone). It said that "I had made the last two years of her life happier by just being me" and that "she would want me to have the necklace and ring". I was overjoyed, this being one of the most sentimental, sincere things ever given to me. I love my family!

Then Saturday night was the 'friend' party. Although there were many who were busy and couldn't make it, I still had a great time! That night, Maci, Emily, and Bri stayed at my house and we all had a great time! Bri rode with me to church Sunday morning. Boy do I miss that girl! She's a hoot!

Lastly, I love my mom and dad so much. They've made this birthday such a memorable one! They strive way too hard to please us. At this point, I understand all the rules they had set for me in the past. Even if I was annoyed with them then, my parents knew what they were doing. They've made me the person I am today. They've grown our family up to be so close, so strong. They're lenient with me because we've grown so close the past few years, and a great trusting bond. I'm so, so thankful that God stuck me with them as my parents! I wouldn't ask for anything different!