A letter to my favorite first born,

I finish these photos almost a year after we have taken them. I had a goal to do them earlier, and in a way, it’s so poignant to do this and finish them up as this leaf turns. Six was a good year, it was a great year for you, and it was a great year for me as your mother. I think out of all the years, this is the year I learned so much from you. It’s been such an adventure getting to know you, and I am so grateful I had you to usher me into the world of parenting. This year you weathered a lot, yet through all challenges, you accepted everything and rolled with it. You exercised patience and acceptance through all the changes. You overcame everything successfully! We moved 3 times, you had three different schools, and with each one you never once showed any stress or animosity towards all the changes that were given to you at such a young age. Through all of that you trusted me and your dad, and we kept each other strong.

I’ve never known a love so true, so pure, and so real, and you have definitely showed me that. You have taught me that it’s best to embrace being different, to love what is honest to the heart, and to shout it from the mountain tops. You’ve shown that things that cause stress should just roll off the back, and grudges just do not have time in life. There’s too many smiles, and too many laughs to be had. There’s also all the hugs and kisses to be shared. You’ve taught me that it’s ok to be goofy, and to rock what is most comfortable. Thank you for being kind, being loving, and being honest. I sometimes forget because you’re so goofy all the time that you also have a sensitive side. And when you’re sensitive, you mean it, and this is a good thing. You’re maturing into this handsome and smart little man, but I’m excited your smile is still the same. It is filled with all the great intentions you have. You are clever, you are adventurous.

So as we close this chapter, this year of six, I’m just proud to say I’ve never known a rock so strong as you. You’re a star, Elliott. You really are.

Love,
Mom