And, somehow, here we are. John had his last schedule pick up night. Senior year is really starting, and it is the beginning of what will be a lot of lasts. The days are long, but the years are simply too short.
To John –
How did we get here? It seems like just yesterday that I was holding you in my arms for the first time. Then, I walked with you into Kindergarten, and your school adventures began. Elementary school flew by, and middle school soon took hold. Then, I blinked and you started high school.
And, that brings us to today. You are a Senior. There are so many things that I want to tell you, but nothing seems right. Instead, I will tell you what I know now that I didn’t know when I started my Senior year.
First, it goes so fast. Before you know it, marching band will be over, and winter will be here. Then, you will pick your college and graduation will be here. It is nine months, but time goes fast. Take a breath, sit back, and enjoy it.
Remember to study. Don’t let up now. You have always struggled with school, but you have taken chances along the way. Keep it up. Finish strong.
Hang out with your family. Take time to call your sister at school. She misses you and this year is hard for her. She isn’t here to watch you go through your Senior year. I remember that she was so mad when you were first born, but it took about two weeks for her to know that you were the best baby brother ever. As for your Dad and me, you made us parents for the second time. You were the quiet baby, and you somehow knew that your sister needed our attention too. So, you would snuggle up in Blue every night and wait your turn. As you grew older, it became apparent that you were the spitting image of your dad, but you were definitely a momma’s boy. We spent countless hours together in hotels for travel baseball and I wouldn’t trade any of it.
Spend time with your beautiful girlfriend. I remember when you first told me about her. You were so excited. I know you two have had ups and downs, but that’s relationship life. Enjoy every moment and hug her tight.
Spend time with your friends. Hang out. Play video games. Laugh. Remember every moment.
You have decisions to make. I know you are only 17, but this is the start of a lot of really hard decisions. You are going to make some good decisions. You are going to make some mediocre decisions. You are going to make some bad decisions. Reflect on every one of them because each decision teaches you something.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to change your mind, and don’t be afraid to take chances. When I was your age, I changed my mind all the time. I recognize now that I was taking chances. I doubted myself a lot. That is okay, but when you make a decision, embrace it. If the choice you made doesn’t work out, it is okay. It may hurt, but there is always the next day.
Most importantly, remember that we love you. Fly high, Baby Boy. Let your Senior year begin.
Love, Mom
