There are so many things I want for you, my dear sweet little boy.
I want to cuddle you first thing in the morning; and breathe in the sweet, warm smell of your baby soft hair.
I want you to grow up to be gentle and kind, so that you may show compassion in times of cruelty.
And when others are mean or try to bully your friends, I want you to help those who are weaker than you. Sometimes, you just have to stand up and fight. Sometimes, it’s the only way.
I want you to appreciate music, so that you may always hear joy in the world around you.
I want you to love animals, and know that it’s okay for the dogs to snuggle with you. They love you as much as we do.
I want to kiss your skinned knees and wipe your crocodile tears away.
I want you to recognize the value of reading, so that your imagination can soar from one adventure to the next.
I want you to value your education, so that you can follow your dreams wherever they take you.
I want you to dream big. And follow your heart.
I want you to bait your own hook. Well, except for the leeches. Make Grumpa handle those.
I want you to learn to shoot a free throw like a normal person (not “granny style”, like your dear old uncoordinated Mom).
I want you to run through the sprinkler on a hot summer day, so I can watch you giggle with delight. And I want to you to act silly and dance in the rain, and catch snowflakes on your tongue.
I want you to have limitless self-worth, and I want you to always walk with your head held high.
I want you to hold eye contact & have a firm handshake, so that others will remember you and respect your opinions.
I want you to know right from wrong. Sometimes, you’ll do the wrong thing. But I want you to learn from your mistakes and make better choices next time.
I want you to have strong character and good values. These will take you everywhere you want to go in life.
I want you to really listen to what others have to say. This, my boy, is how you will learn the most valuable lessons.
I want you to learn how to drive a stick shift.
I want your soul to be soothed by the sounds of the gently flowing waters of nature.
I want you to be more than just a face in the crowd. I want you to be a leader. And more importantly, I want you to think for yourself.
I want you to always make time for the important things in life. Like spending time with your Mom & Dad!
I want you to ask for help when you need it the most. And I want you to be gracious and thankful when others take the time to help you.
I want you to learn to grow vegetables. Preferably while wearing a silly hat; but I’m flexible on that one.
I want you to remember that a tomato is a fruit, not a vegetable.
I want to live forever, so that I can always be near you. But I know that’s impossible; so I want you to forgive me when I shower you with hugs and pepper you with kisses.
I want you to laugh out loud. Don’t hold anything in, and don’t hold back when showing your feelings. It’s okay to cry when you need to.
I want you to always always always know how much you are loved.
