Eighteen and Everything in Between — Happy Birthday, My Jaimie

21 July 2025

Joyeux anniversaire, ma Jaimie d’amour!

Eighteen… finally! You’ve been waiting for it — and here it is. And somehow, it feels like it all happened in the blink of an eye.

This year, I’ve watched you take on new challenges, grow stronger, and shine brighter — juggling school, friendships, work, and responsibilities with a grace that truly inspires me. And let’s not forget the three jobs you held — one moment you’re making juice or doing the dishes, the next you’re babysitting, helping at events, or dressed like a princess or a doll, radiating joy and energy. All while staying committed to your volunteering — from the pen pal project with Kenya at school, to leading and founding the Juniorette Club of Coconut Grove.

You even invited me to your yoga and Pilates sessions… I made it to one (and let’s be honest, that was a miracle 😅). I’m not exactly known for being sporty — but if you give me another chance, I’ll try to do better this year!

You carry yourself with such independence, kindness, and strength. I admire you deeply. Of course, let’s not forget: your bedroom still qualifies as one of your most avant-garde artistic creations… but hey, we can’t do it all, right? (Don’t worry, I’m keeping the photos as mom-leverage 😉).

These past few years, you’ve worked so hard while still showing up for your friends with presence and care. I’m beyond proud of the young woman you’ve become — and endlessly grateful to be your mom.

This year felt different — it went by so fast. For the past 17 years, we’ve always celebrated together — my summer daughter, our sunshine in July. But this time, we had conflicting plans. We had to return to Miami earlier, and you stayed longer in Europe with friends and family. I completely understood your choice — and I honored it — but oh, how I missed being there on the exact day.

This year, I had to learn to let go. To accept that sometimes, others will step in when I can’t — when my own work, my own needs, or my well-being require me to pause.

I missed your prom. I missed your cap and gown fitting. And now, your 18th birthday. Three huge milestones I watched from afar. And while I’m so grateful for the amazing people who stood in for me, I carry each of those missed moments in my heart.

That said — I’ve also been there for so many other moments, thank G-d. And I hold those close too. But I knew, deep down, that as a mom — as a woman — I needed to keep growing. To show you by example that we’re allowed to evolve, to chase our dreams, and to give ourselves the means to do so.

Because one day, you’ll be in a similar position. And knowing that I made it through — that I tried, wholeheartedly, to find a way to balance love, ambition, and responsibilities — I hope it gives you strength. Just like watching my mother and grandmothers in action gave me mine.

As women, we must carve out space for ourselves, for our passions, while still giving our all to those we love. I would never trade a second of the time I’ve had with you and your siblings. You’ve always come first when it mattered most — that goes without saying. But wow… how proud I am — of you for understanding, and of myself for doing what I needed to do when the time called for it.

And let’s not forget, this year I was still right there beside you in so many ways — driving you to SAT tutoring twice a week at night, supporting the Juniorette Club, cheering you on through each decision and step. It’s not about listing it all — it’s not about me — it’s about you, and us.

And I want to thank you, Jaimie — because one of the reasons I was able to show up more fully in my work this year was thanks to you. You decided to take your driving license early, and during your senior year of high school, you took on the responsibility of driving your brother to school every single day. That act of love and independence freed up nearly three hours in my day — and with that time, I was able to find my rhythm, focus, and finally settle into a work groove with less stress and more clarity.

You were such a big part of my own growth this year, and I hope you know it. Truly.

And I also want to thank your brother — who, like you and your sister, agreed to take the metro 🚇 back home most days. What a gift that was for me this year. These small acts of teamwork and maturity made a world of difference, and I’m beyond grateful.

It’s about the love we share, the path we’ve walked, and the bond that grows with every challenge, every choice, every chapter.

As I settle into my own rhythm, I realize I’ve had some big milestones myself. And as you begin this exciting new chapter, I hope for more shared everyday joys, spontaneous travels, and extraordinary memories together.

My role as your mom will always be to guide and protect — but the truth is, we guide each other. I learn as much from you and your siblings as I hope you learn from me. It’s one of the greatest gifts of my life to be your mother.

And now here you are — finally 18. What a number! When I remember my own, I see how much lay ahead, and I wish for you nothing less than happiness, success, love, and a life full of meaning. I pray for your protection and for your dreams to unfold — may your heart always stay wide open.

Life is life — full of twists and wonder. So shine on, my moon child 🌕. Use your intuition and your beautiful heart to light your way — and the way of others. Find your truth. Laugh, learn, love deeply.

I cannot wait to hold you in my arms again and kiss you until you push me away saying, “That’s enough, Mom!” — when we both know… it never really is.

With all my love,

Maman Jessica

With love and light always