17

Her birthday is always the toughest to wrap my head around. Today my Chone turns 17 years old. 

That blows my mind. 

How can that little perfect child who loved to wear crazy rainbow socks and loved spending the night at my house, who was the only kid in our crew be a year away from adulthood? 

The one with that big smile and who could light up a room and who could gladly get me to watch Lilo and Stitch everyday.  

The little girl who liked to dress in all green or sometimes in a Barney costume.

She was our first baby and I always say it because it's true, she was my first true love. When this kid came into the world I was floored with the love I had for her.

She is so smart and so funny. She was such a great little kid. I loved every minute I got to spend with her as she grew up.

And then she became a big cousin and a big sister and she has always been the best example for the little ones. She is kind and patient and loving to them. My kids obviously adore her.

Our weekly trip to Chuck E. Cheese are just a memory. Yes she could get me to go to Chuck E Cheese weekly! Anything for my Chone.

In the blink of an eye she has become a young lady. A smart, talented, politically charged young lady. Someone who stands up for what she believes in and has the guts to stand in front of hundreds of people and speak her brilliant mind or sing a beautiful song.

As she has grown up watching her perform is still one of my most favorite things. To see her play an instrument or act in a play gives me more pride than she will ever know.

I cannot believe that today she is 17 years old.

Chugg, 

I am so amazingly proud of the person you are becoming. You are strong, smart and using your talents to fight for what you believe in. I am so happy that you have found your passion in life. I remember when I found mine. It is life-changing. 

I can't tell you what a trip it's been to be part of your journey in this life. I have to admit, I take a little credit for the person you have become. There were years when we were together all the time and I loved that time. I have no doubt that you are going to change the world. You changed my dramatically the day you were born.

I love you so much. 

More than you will ever know.

 I am here for you for always.

 Happy 17th Birthday Chone Balone

-Tia Lissa