Sydney's Fashion Diary: Happy Sweet 16 to my first born!

I hope you all had a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. My husband and I were so busy planning Courtney's birthday that we felt like the long weekend is gone in the blink of an eye. I can't believe my first baby is 16! As a parent, it was a special yet emotional day for me. I had big plans for her but knowing her, she would rather have a simple birthday celebration. It's a good thing that I discussed my ideas with her. She didn't end up liking any of them =) I spent 3 days making these 2 giant marquee numbers. Didn't turn out as nice as I would have hoped but she loves them regardless. Family and a few close friends came over for a cookout and it was just a perfect low-key birthday celebration.

To my Courtney:

In my eyes, you are perfect. You're sweet, mature, smart, loving and most importantly, have a good head on your shoulders. When I decided to walk away from the first marriage, I was scared and confused. I wasn't sure of my direction in life but one thing I was very certain of is that you are (and always will be) my number one priority. At 16, you have everything you need to be successful in life. Thanks to the pandemic, we are slowly but surely building an unbreakable mother-daughter relationship. We hang out every night until I fall asleep. I am so thankful for you, each and every day. I teach you the right things but I don't control you. I let you make your own decisions but knowing the consequences. You're figuring out your identity and learning to stand on your own two feet. I teach you to love yourself first and most importantly, find your own voice and be authentic. Never let anyone tell you how to live your life. It's called your life for a reason.

For your sweet sixteen, I gave you the same ring I have. Inside the ring, it's engraved with "Love Always - MSCM" - our family initials. I wanted you to remember - There will be hard times, you'll make mistakes but no matter what the circumstances, your family will always love you and be there for you. Happy Sweet 16, sweatheart!

Love Always,
Mom