A Letter to My Sons

Dear Sons (all four of you!),

You are 10,8, 5 and 2 and yet I can already see you coming into your own and growing up in a scary, scary world. As you grow and change, here are some words of wisdom from your mom (or Mamma Mia if you are my oldest).

1. Be yourself. In a world where you are encouraged to be anything you want to be and in fact welcome with open arms, don't be afraid to just be a little boy. If your friends tease you for not seeing the latest horror movie or a television show that mom and dad just don't let you watch, take it in stride and try not to pay attention. If playing in the dirt, going swimming, and watching Scooby Doo makes you happy, enjoy it. There will come a day when you will miss the goofy footy pajamas mom buys for you and the moment when all it takes to make you happy is a freezer pop and your favorite television show.

2. Know you are important. I know you hear all the remarks I get from people about having FOUR BOYS who just don't know any better. But guess what? You are all so very important to me. I fought so hard for each and every one of you in different ways. You and your sister are my greatest accomplishments and I wake up every day so thankful for each and every one of you. My life wouldn't be anything without you guys. If you ever feel down, or as though something you are doing just isn't good enough, you can come over to me and I'll be the best cheerleader you have ever seen (even if it embarrasses you).

3. Be nice to one another. The nights you spend awake whispering, laughing and even fussing, there is a reason I don't always come barging in and telling you to go to bed. You are making memories. You are brothers. Enjoy that. As you get older I pray you stay close and look back upon those memories and smile. They make me smile even now.

4. Don't be afraid to have morals. So many things are accepted these days and with other kids growing up so fast. Don't be afraid to have morals. If something is hurting someone or something don't ever be afraid to stand up for it. Be strong in your faith and don't be afraid to admit you are a Christian.

5. Know you are loved beyond belief and there is someone who always thinks you are perfect (most of the time ;) ). I may find it difficult to stand back. I may sob when you put in "Toy Story 3" because it reminds me of you guys growing up far too quickly. I may not always like what you do or how you act. There may be teenage years where we fight and you think I am not fair but please keep tucked in the back of your mind, that there is a mom who loves you more than anything and thinks you are perfect.