Happy 17th Birthday, Brandon!

Dear Brandon,

SEVENTEEN. Is this possible? For some reason this seems so much more grown up than 16. Maybe that suits you, because I think you've grown up quite a lot this past year.

This was your first year at Hopkins High School, and you seem to have done pretty well. You pulled some great grades the first part of the school year, so you were finally able to take Driver's Ed! You're getting some good time behind the wheel, and I think you're waiting patiently for the six months to pass so you can get your REAL license. You also played rugby this year, which was a surprise because we thought you'd go for lacrosse. But rugby seems to suit you, even though you may not look like the stereotypical rugby player. The height and the red hair certainly made it easy for us to find you on the field. It was so exciting to watch you in the state tournament...and to see Hopkins WIN!! You had a whole cheering section of family there to support you. Dad was so proud.

The grades suffered a bit toward the end of the year, but I think you know how important it is to regroup and tackle your senior year with a little more focus. SENIOR YEAR. I know, I can hardly believe it either. The football coach has been after you, so we'll see how that plays out in the fall. It's going to be a very good school year for you, I can feel it.

The thing I have enjoyed watching the most over the past year is your relationship with your sister. She is at the point now where she reaches up for people, and when she reaches up for you it melts my heart. You are very patient with her (even when she tries to steal your pillows). It's just wonderful to see the two of you together.

A couple of weeks ago you started working at Target, and you seem to like it. Although you tell some weird stories about your time as a cashier, I think you enjoy the interaction with people and of course, making a little cash. I imagine we'll be having a car conversation soon enough. :)

All in all it's been a good year, and it's hard to believe that one year from now you will be 18...but we won't think about that so much right now. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Love,
Jess