a letter to my son in the autumn of '13

This past weekend was filled with nothing but fun with this little boy, and because of his reaction to this glorious fall weather we've been having I'm writing this letter to him so that he can remember my reaction of our weekend.

Noah, 

You are my motivator, my brightness on rainy days. You keep me on my toes, and when I'm feeling blue you help me to "snap out of it" and tell me to "get out of the house" more often. Your personality reminds me of your sister Lexie when she was your age. Headstrong, willful, & being fearless in telling me of the things you'd like to do. You know me on the days that bring me down, and in a polite way with a dose of attitude you remind me that I have you to take care of and nurture. You behave like a six year old yet your only half that age, but not for long. 

This weekend with you was magnificent. Each day spent with you is always magnificent. Even when you don't take naps. You know how much I love fall, and how much I love to take pictures of us when we go out. Venturing outdoors this time of year is breathtaking, and is the most colorful season of all. Fall is my favorite, and I can tell it's going to be your favorite too. 

Papa is such a good sport at capturing photos of us, and it looks like he'll be doing that more often now that he has a job where he has weekends off! 

As you know rainy days will never stop us from venturing out and having a good time, and we sure did a lot of that this past weekend. 

I love it when it rains, and without it fall foliage wouldn't exist. The changing of the leaves in color reminds me of just that...change. It is a reminder to me that we all change with the season, and with rain all things grow...including you (tear). 

It's bittersweet. 

You know...watching you grow up, and all. Seeing you turn into a little grown up... it isn't so bad. It only helps me look forward to the day you turn five when you'll be in kindergarten, and a reader. Piano lessons with a side of dance class or gymnastics. Yes... dance, because you love dancing, and gymnastics because you love doing somersaults. 

It'll help me look forward to the day you turn eight to be baptized, and start boy scouts. When you turn 12, you'll be the biggest heartbreaker ever known to man. Turning 16, driving and dating. Something I'm going to have to get used to is..GIRLS. Turning 18, receiving your eagle scout, graduating with honors, and preparing to serve a church mission. Returning home honorably at the age of 20, college...a relationship. A good job, temple marriage, kids..... 

Overwhelmed yet? 

I am. 

Because in between these accomplishments you'll endure challenges & triumphs. 

Therefore I will be treasuring every single second of this stage in your life. Not only to have fun, but to teach you proper principles so that you can overcome any challenges that come your way. 

But for now...this is the fun I have with you. 

Going on walks, playing with cars, and trains. Picking up rocks, and splashing through puddles. Chasing pigeons, and birds. Spiderman, star wars, cartoons, and playing games on papas iPad. Going to the park, and enjoying our library days while you're still little. Cuddling, holding my hand, and having you sit on my lap every chance i get...especially at church.

These things will all be in slow motion for me, and until the day comes for you to outgrow these "adventurous days with mama phase" I will be taking advantage of them until you do. 

 

Happy fall son.

XO, 

Mama

to Sierra on your 18th birthday.

This is it. Your 18 years of age, and although your considered an adult, I personally don't think you've reached adulthood until your 21. You still have to let us know where you are at all times, and at all places. That is until your on your own. 

In three and a half weeks you'll be graduating with honors, and attending one of the best performing arts school in Philadelphia majoring in a field that surrounds your entire being with happiness. 

And because you will be living on campus you have my permission to call me everyday. Okay, I know you may not call everyday, but know that you can call anytime day or night! 

I know that you will be safe while living on campus. The choices you make determine your future both temporally & spiritually and I always pray that they will be the right ones. 

Continue to strive to continue to live high standards. Something that you were taught since you were a toddler. I trust that you will be mindful of your time, and that you will continue to attend church every week so that you can be strengthened and nourished with Christ's love. 

Always remember that special place that will take you away from the stresses of the world, and to make an effort to find the time to attend. Continue to build up that testimony by sharing your beliefs and in being a great example. 

Express yourself with kindness, love, and compassion for those who are less fortunate, but always be aware of any negativity that comes your way. 

Always remember to listen to that still small voice. Especially when it nudges at you, and whispers to you, "it's not right."

Surround yourself with great friends no matter what color they are as long as they uplift your life. 

Study, study, study, but have fun too. The right kind (smile.)

You will be living in a city that is filled with so much art, culture, and history. Take advantage of your free time, and explore your surroundings. 

I can't believe that 18 years of your life has passed through, and I know that it's time to let go of the reigns. Although I feel as if I'm ready to let you go, I know that I'll cry like a baby once we leave your dorm room. Knowing the faith that I carry with a daughter like you reassures me that life goes on, and I  can carry on. 

And with a prayer your father and I will walk away with our heads up high as parents saying to each other, "We did good with this one. Oh yes, pretty darn good."

Happy 18th birthday to you my dear Sierra! May it be the beginning of a year filled with tremendous amount of blessings for a fabulous year! 

XO-Mom & dad (not really, but you know him...he's not much of a writer.) All that will change though once your gone. Maybe.

Keep smiling!