We had a wonderful day just the two of us. Lunch together before some shopping. You spent a good portion of your birthday money on some resin making supplies and have plans to make some cool gifts for others. We picked you up a new dress and earrings before we went for your birthday pictures. You laughed and said you loved shopping and I told you that you aren't like me then.  It was a small glimpse what it might be like to be friends with you when you are grown.

Ruth, you are crafty, caring, and an instinctive leader. You are fantastic at taking care of your younger brothers. Unfortunately your other siblings aren't as accommodating of your desire to help. You are also good at managing responsibilities around the house. It is wonderful to see you growing and maturing into a young lady.

You are quick at your studies and work hard to excel even in challenging subjects like spelling and fractions. Infact perseverance and attention to detail in many ways are hallmarks of your personality. Everything you do, every sketch, every assignment you strive to improve. I hope this wont result in you being crippled with perfectionism like I can be at time, but that it drives you to do great things and develops your talents. It can be a difficult balance to strike.

The biggest thing you need to work on is also a failing of mine - patience and as a result being kind when you have run out of it. No one seems to be more adapt at pushing your buttons than your siblings, even when they aren't trying.  As much as it can be annoying it is up to you to control your responses. Sometimes we feel justified when we snap back at someone, but the truth is that is not the way to treat those we love.

More than anything your father and I want you to be kind and loving, a God honoring woman, and you are undoubtedly a beautiful girl inside and out.

Love,

Momma