Just One More Year And She'll Be An Adult - Happy Birthday Shelby

Today my oldest daughter is 17 years old.  If I think about it too much, I'll have a panic attack.  She's not a little girl anymore and it's hard for me to loosen the apron strings. 

Shelby may not know it (or maybe she does) but my worry for her is strong, my fear for her is upfront, and my love for her is unconditional. 

In some ways, I think I did right by her.  She has a job (until recently, had two), is on the honor roll at school, and participates in school clubs.  In other ways, I'm sure I didn't do right by her.  I confide in her more than I should and I've taught her the power of a voice.  Sometimes that's good, but MAN, does she have an opinion for everything. 

Shelby doesn't realize the struggle I go through with wanting to hold on and needing to let go.  She has a lot of independence but I still expect to know where she's at and what she's doing at all times.  She tries to waggle her way out of  that sometimes and it causes strife.  The past couple of days she's made me want to pull my hair out and has almost caused it to turn grey.  I almost want to smack some sense into her, then hug her. 

Happy 17th birthday to "My Elby".  Love you always.  And here for you always.