Eleven

The essence of Hannah at 11

Today, Hannah Ruth, you are eleven.

Ten has been such an amazing year, that another birthday already is bittersweet. I don't want to leave 10 behind, and I don't think you do either. There was so much magic in being 10. But knowing you like I do, I know you will always keep making the magic happen.

You began the year with your first clarinet and choir concert, beginning a string of concerts we won't see end anytime soon. Your schedule kept getting busier as you added swim lessons and events like Funtastic Fridays to your life. We got your bat mitzvah date - look out 2017! You couldn't wait to get back to Camp Yavneh and became an instant celebrity after your solo got a camp-wide standing ovation. You were a Who over the summer, but it turned out to be time well-spent for your amazing turn as Gertrude McFuzz in "Seussical." You had the best teacher of your elementary school years, and you became a stronger writer. You got your first phone and love to text me strings of emojis. You read more books than I can keep up with, and thankfully you've inherited my love of Broadway. 

You continue to be sweet and kind and well-loved by all of the adults in your life. For the most part, you're patient, which I find astounding. And though he drives us all crazy, I know deep down that your brother is still your very best friend. 

I type this sitting next to you on the train home from our very latest adventure which you inspired, a spontaneous trip to NYC to see the show "Matilda." You're happy of course, but you're mostly happy because there was an element of today that everyone in the family got to enjoy. Even on your day, you know that it's about more than just you. I'm so proud of you, my Hanniebelle, and so happy to be your Mom. Happy birthday, sweetheart.

(You can also see letters for ages seven, eight, nine and ten.)