Eight is enough. Anytime you want to stop growing and remain just as sweet, innocent and full of joy as you are right now, I'm game.
You are kind.
You are so very smart.
You are generous with your time and your love.
You work hard and play hard.
You are funny, silly, goofy and lovable.
These are all traits that I wish for you as you grow older. My goal has always been to raise a kind, generous, hard-working, play-loving boy... and to guide him to being the very same kind of young man and then adult. I've noticed that you are growing up a little bit more lately... and though you told me last night that you will always be my baby, I can see the baby slipping away by the day. Being replaced by a boy with a heart and mind of his own. I am raising you for these moments., but I confess to knowing I will miss the little you.
This year you are in second grade and killing it, played more soccer, basketball and soccer than I can count, made me laugh till I cried, held my hand and my heart, continue to snuggle every night as we read our books, and reminded me that life is for living and loving.
As I watch you grow, I cant help but think about the future and who you are going to become. Please remember a few things:
There is no substitute for family. Your dad and I will always be here for you, will always support your dreams and will always be here to pick you up when you need us... and your sister and brother as well.
Work hard, play hard. You do this beautifully now, but it wont always be easy.
Losing is growing. I wish I could tell you that you will never fail, that a trophy will always be within your reach, but not only is that not true, I don't want it to be. Every time you lose a game, miss that A+, over thrown the ball - you have the chance to grow, to learn from your mistakes and improve.
Respect. Give it, earn it.
Take responsibility for your actions. Learn from your missteps, stand tall and do better next time.
Worry about yourself. I tell you (and your sister) this every day. Your job is to compare yourself to "you", not to worry about anyone else's grades, actions, abilities or attitudes.
It is my absolute honor to be your mom and to help shape you from this sweet boy into the amazing young man you are becoming. I cannot wait to see what this next year brings.
I love you with all of my heart.
Mama
