STORY:

My niece is turning 16! I can't believe it - she's grown so fast. I was the Godmother at her baptism and I still see her as that cute little girl. She's been through many phases but has always remained sweet. Although she's a normal teenager, changing favorite bands often and trying to stay cool and current, she would still admit to liking certain childhood things (see list provided). She was even a little "goth" at one point, but that passed, too. Important things in her life: Her family, her close friends, her boyfriend of 2 years and music (she likes to play guitar). Also, she will be starting hairdressing school at the end of this year and had a summer job in a hair salon. I would love to present her with a clever poem that incorporates all of these elements so that she can read it at her party and have a good laugh.

POEM:

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The poem was a hit!! I printed it in color and framed it. She read  it out loud to the crowd and was met with giggles and laughs in the funny parts and "awwws" in the touching parts. It even brought tears to her dad's eye (my older brother). I got great comments throughout the party from her friends, her family, her boyfriend and of course the birthday girl. I believe she is going to hang it in her newly decorated bedroom. What a great keepsake for her Sweet 16! I could not have gotten her a better, more personal gift. Thank you again!! It was worth every penny - I could never rhyme like that.

STORY:

POEM:

Happy Sweet 16, Lizzie!

I had my first baby girl on International Women’s Day
Having you to celebrate – there could be no better way
We spent the night in the hospital, you were tiny as could be
I could not believe the miracle that was looking back at me

You spent your first year of life alone until your sister came along
Then you competed for attention with a silly dance or song
Your hands were never idle as you created constantly
Drawing, painting, sketching as you sang along with Barney

I should have known back then that an artist lived inside
You seemed naturally gifted at every craft you tried
As you got older it was clear that you would find success
It also became clear that, like every artist, you’re a mess!

I know it’s hard to focus when we ask you to be neat
I wouldn’t say you’re distracted, just that your projects are incomplete!
Lost in your creative world, to you it all makes sense
Can we accept “I didn’t see that! I forgot!” as your ongoing defense?

But you’re so much more than messy. You’re also absent-minded
You’re really not so bad as long as you’re constantly reminded
The times you lost your cell phone didn’t cause too much harm
Ok, so you’re forgetful, but they say three time’s a charm!

Now don’t feel too badly – I’m sure Da Vinci was eccentric
We love you as you are since you’re just kooky, not egocentric
Your take on life is refreshing – very entertaining and unique
Sensitive though you are, you’re still willing to listen to critique

Your talents run the gamut from music to art to make-up
When you finally make the scene, you’ll cause quite a shake-up
With so many creative options, choosing may not by easy
But once you decide, I know your career path will be breezy

Now my baby’s becoming a woman and the very thought makes me weep
Your beauty is so obvious and it’s much more than skin deep
If you end up on a CD or the cover of a magazine
Just know that to your mommy you’ll always be Sweet 16

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