Sixteen

Today, Hannah Ruth, you are turning sixteen.

I’m not sure how you keep doing it, but each year with you tops the last. I’m the luckiest Mom I know, because you share so much of your life with me. It is such a privilege to hear your thoughts on life as your world continues to expand.

You blew us all away singing with HaZamir at Lincoln Center. You had your first stage doors at Be More Chill and Dear Evan Hansen. You were a disco dancing flower vendor, a sentimental mother who believes in miracles, and a student director at your old middle school. You kept up with Prozdor and Rosh Hodesh, got a regular gig at Shabbat Alive, and added a position on the USY Chapter Board and manage the South Stage Instagram. And obviously, camp is life.

You comfort watch old episodes of “Victorious” when you need to feel just a bit younger than you are. You can most often be found on Instagram Explore, and you’re always up for an Instagram-able adventure, even if you’d prefer that I post it. You care so very deeply about so many people, I wish your friends really knew just how much. You started your first relationship, and it’s been such a joy to see how happy he makes you. Your kindness towards your brother knows no bounds, and you and Shira can side eye with the best of them.

My goodness, it’s going to be Kerem 2020! Your last official summer as a camper is going to be epic. And you are going to kill it (him?) in JCS (I couldn’t resist). And driving! - you’re already well on your way. Happy birthday, my Hanniebelle. I love you so. 

(You can also see letters for ages seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen and fifteen.)