I decided on M’s birthday back in March, that I would write a letter to each boy each year on their birthdays. You can read the letter to M here, but today is dedicated to R, who turns 15 today!!
Dear R,
You’re 15 today! I’m still in denial about it and plan on staying there for the next several years! It seems like the last 5 years have gone so fast! (You were just 10 when we went camping together for the first time, do you remember that?) I do, so very clearly! You were so little! Not so much anymore! You’re my gentle giant now! I don’t know if I’ve ever met a 15 year old boy (I know you’re not a boy anymore, but see the first sentence about denial) that is as gentle and quiet as you. You’ve always been that way too (as long as I’ve known you anyway)!
Our relationship has been fantastic! We’ve never really had any issues between you and I and it seems, in my opinion, that our relationship is a special one. It’s not like the one you have with your mom (and that’s great) or even the one you have with dad…it’s just what’s perfect for you and me. I cherish it, I hope you know that! I cherish the times we spend together! I cherish the memories we have together and those times when we just get to talk and you tell me about whatever is going on in your life! Those times hold the most meaning in my heart and always will!
I’m not going to lie, you’re a pretty great kid, but you also frustrate me sometimes. Sometimes…I just wish you would move a little faster, like literally walk faster! 🙂 How can my short legs move faster than your long legs that go on for years? I know it’s just you and your personality. I know you’ll find your own pace in life and that’s fantastic! I want you to know that you’ve taught me so much about being a parent! It’s completely different parenting you and M. You’re so different! You’ve taught me to be a better listener. You’ve taught me patience and grace!
You and your personality is the greatest thing about you! I love to watch you learn and grow in this world. I commend you for doing what you like, what you want, and not worrying about what your friends are doing! That is a strong characteristic that will get you far in life! When you love something, you are dedicated to it and have a drive to succeed, this is also an amazing quality! I can’t wait to see where these amazing qualities take you in life! I know you’re going to be successful at whatever you put your mind to!
In 4 short years you will have graduated and be moving on to the next step in life. You need to know, I can’t think about this too much or I end up with tears streaming down my face! I’m not ready for the next 4 years. I hope I don’t embarrass you will all my tears, but know that every drop of a tear is because I love you more than I ever knew I could and am so proud of the young man you are and the man I know you are becoming. Thank you for accepting me in your life the way you have and allowing me to be your step-mom. You will always and forever have a special place in my heart! I will always be here for you and would do anything for you! You are 1/3 of my world!
Happy Birthday Bud, I love you!
Katy
