Happy Birthday to the young man who captures my heart every time he smiles! Who brings joy and laughter wherever he goes.

Thank you for being a light to me and all of those around you…promise me you’ll always keep shining bright. 

A letter to my sweet boy!

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Dear Aidan,

Today, you turn 15…my heart just skipped a beat typing that. You’re in the home stretch on the way to adulthood. Can we slow down just a tad? 

I never realized having a son would be like a long, slow, drawn-out breakup, but as you mature and grow, I know you’re more ready to take on the world than I give you credit for. This mama’s heart wants to slow down just a little bit.

I want to see you again speeding down the street in your little Lighting McQueen car and watching you giggle uncontrollably as Papa put you in the laundry basket and spun you around as the dogs chased y’all barking!

Or watch you chase butterflies down the soccer field instead of the soccer ball with your socks pulled up to your little thighs.

There was a void in my heart that I didn’t know existed until you were born. You mended my heart the day I held you, and every year since then, you have sealed it with love, joy, and happiness.

Be patient with me over the next three years as you become more and more independent. I’m proud of you, but I’m sad you’re growing up. There are so many things I already miss, and I will forever treasure our talks, driving lessons, shopping trips, laughs, fights, and especially listening to you strum your guitar.

Aidan, your father and I love you bigger than the sky, higher than the moon; you are our everything. Here are just a few things we want to remind you of:

• Never stop being kind. Be the Kind that can be felt when walking in a room.
• Be a gentleman with your words and your actions.
• Always open a door for a lady.
• Be proud of yourself, but don’t be prideful.
• Happiness starts within. Do not expect anyone else to make you happy.
• You are never alone. Even when you feel alone, Daddy and I are always in your corner.
• Forgive. Yourself first and then others. We are all in this together. Ask for forgiveness without an excuse; own your mistake. Resentment makes you bitter and enslaves you; forgiveness sets you free.
• Your attitude is always a choice.
• Laugh a lot. Have fun.
• Unplug and take in the world around you. The iPhone, iPad, and everything electronic will remain there; don’t miss what’s happening because you’re looking at a screen. Embrace the silence, read, write, draw, think, listen to music, explore the outdoors, and be your own company.
• Sing loud, really loud….when you’re alone and with people.
• Learn to love yourself now. It gets harder if you leave it until you’re older.
• Be grateful. List the things you are thankful for every day.
• Expect to fail. Failure is not fatal. Learn the lessons, then get back up and try again.
• Act with integrity at all times, especially when no one is watching.
• Have outrageous dreams. You’ll be amazed at what comes true.
• Choices lead. Feelings follow.
• Trust the Lord with all your heart; he will NEVER fail you. Meet Him in the secret place and wait for His voice; you’ll always know the secrets to life.
• You know The Way, The Truth, and the Life, so you never have to be lost, and you can always find your way home.

Happy Birthday, Aidan James! I LOVE YOU BIG.

Love,

Mom