"IM FEELING 22"

My Dearest Brooke,

Happy 22nd Birthday, my beautiful girl.

I’ve been thinking about this letter for days now, wondering how to possibly put into words everything I feel for you. The truth is—there aren’t enough words in the world to explain how much I love you, how proud I am of you, or how grateful I feel just to be your mom.

But I’ll try.

From the very first moment I held you in my arms, 22 years ago today, you changed everything. You filled spaces in my heart I didn’t even know existed. You were wide-eyed and curious, strong-willed and full of light — and you still are. You’ve been my sunshine on the darkest days, my laughter in the chaos, my reminder that love—real, deep, soul-shaking love—is what life is all about.

You are my heart walking outside my body. Always have been, always will be. And today, that heart of mine turns 22.

There’s something unforgettable about 22. It’s magical, messy, exciting, a little chaotic — and completely yours to make your own. You’re old enough to know better, young enough to try anyway, and brave enough to keep laughing through it all.

So laugh — laugh when you’re sure, laugh when you’re lost, and especially when you’re full of joy. Laugh through the moments that don’t make sense yet, and celebrate the ones that do. Say yes to adventure. Say no when your peace matters more. Trust your instincts. Guard your heart, but don’t be afraid to open it. Cry when you need to. Forgive yourself when things don’t go as planned. And never forget how worthy you are of love, happiness, and all the good things this life has to offer.

You’ve grown into such a remarkable woman. You are thoughtful, brave, smart, resilient, funny, and so full of love. You carry both strength and softness in you — a rare and beautiful mix. Life has already thrown you a few storms, but you’ve met each one with grace and come through stronger, wiser, and still with that unmistakable spark in your eyes.

That spark… it’s always been there. It’s you.

I know 22 won’t always feel easy. That education degree won't always feel easy. There will be days when you feel on top of the world, and others when you're just trying to keep it together. But I want you to remember this — joy can still be found in the middle of the unknown. You are allowed to not have it all figured out. You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to grow slowly, at your own pace. Let this season stretch you, surprise you, and shape you. Some of your most meaningful memories — and lessons — will come now.

And wherever life takes you next, just know this: I’ll be right here. Cheering you on. Praying for you. Loving you more fiercely than you’ll ever truly understand. Don’t go too far, though 😁

I look at you and see someone who is both fierce and gentle, strong and compassionate, driven and kind. You bring light to every space you enter. You love deeply, think big, and feel everything so vividly — that is your superpower. Don’t ever let this world dim that spark inside you.

And while I may want to hold on a little longer to the little girl you once were, I am so unbelievably proud to stand beside the woman you’ve become. Watching you grow into yourself has been the greatest honor of my life. I will always be here — to lift you up, to remind you who you are, and to love you every step of the way.

So today, celebrate big. Blast that Taylor Swift song "I'm feeling 22". Dance like no one’s watching. Laugh until you cry. Fall in love with the little things. Dream bigger than ever before. Be as bold, brilliant, and beautifully you as ever.

You deserve nothing less than joy that fills you up and love that meets you exactly where you are.

Happy Birthday, sweetheart. You are the greatest gift of my life. I love you more than words — and I always will.

With all my love,
Mom