Havana often has deep wisdom that she will share when she feels like it or when she is annoyed with you. Her truth, while sometimes delivered a bit harsh, is usually spot on. She is smart and sharp and has good advice about things and people. And then, there is the teetering; when her younger self is present and I have to take things she expressed with a deep breath or a grain of salt. But no matter how Havana is showing up, I cherish all of her. She reminds me a lot of myself at this age, which is both difficult but also allows me to understand her-somewhat more.
With a little more self-determination, Havana will do many great things. I have started to witness that there is the need for her to push herself more, while at the same time, she knows her limits, energetically and physically, and will set boundaries for what she and can not do. Havana knows when she needs to decompress, reset and recharge. I am reassured that at her age, she knows her limits. That said, there are times, I know Havana could step forward more in her life but being a teenager can impede that.
Havana continues to be the cat whisperer. That will probably not change. She is looking forward to some cat sitting jobs this summer.
Havana has a sense of style and a good sense of fashion dos/don'ts. I often defer to her on what looks good and what doesn't. She has taken to 'borrowing' my jewelry (she takes without asking but she does put it back!), which I get a kick out of. I am told often how much of a hippie I am, with no real sense of style but I guess my earrings, bracelets and rings are good enough for this finicky teen.
Havana has a small but sweet group of friends. I have long encouraged both of the girls to keep close to those who you feel connected to; that you don't need many friends but a few real, authentic people in your life will be much more fulfilling and meaningful. Havana has some life long friendships and some newer ones that are meaningful to her. She is a thoughtful friend, always has been. She is kind and giving and her humor has only grown. Havana is ver funny, sharp and quick witted.
Havana and her sister have gotten closer as they have gotten older. Like all siblings, there are some knock down, drag out moments but more often I will hear them in each other's rooms, making plans, sharing outfit ideas, asking for input on outfits, conspiring how to get concert tickets and so much more. They love to go thrifting together and they are addicted to Boba, with Havana often getting Amara to take her to get some after school. Amara complains at times about being Havana's chauffeur but it is quite endearing, the two of them going out together and doing things or meeting friends. Their relationship is sweet, solid and strong. I love that for them. I am have some concerns what Havana will do when big sis goes to UO next year. We are already making plans for her to fly up and visit. I am most thankful for modern technology and things like FaceTime so they can stay connected. But the adjustment is going to be a significant one for Havana. I hope she will lean into more school activities or outside hobbies that will offer healthy outlets. I will also be keeping her as close as she will let me.
Havana has been the rainbow in my life. Since birth she has been a joyful gem. Her teen years have brought in some cloudy moments but that is part of this development period. I sometimes wonder if Havana has yet to fully she herself in all the gloriousness of who she is. Probably not. Most of don't until much later in life but I do hope that her confidence grows, that she will always be kind and compassionate towards herself and know that she is a rainbow. She lights up my life and those around her.
Happy Sixteenth to my Havana Ruby Modesta.
No comments:
Post a Comment