A Letter To My Son

My sweet Camden,

  As I'm writing you this letter, you have been bouncing around in my tummy for 32 weeks growing every single day. We've already established a bond, us two, but I want you to know that as much as I am looking forward to the day we get to meet you, sometimes I feel like I'm far from ready to be a mama. Your daddy reassures me, always telling me I have a special gift (that he says I got from my Mom, your grandma who's now in Heaven) to love and care for people hard and make them feel comfortable and special. And I think he's right...I'm full of love to give and am willing to learn anything and everything there is to know about raising you, which I think is a great place to start. I want the best for you and will do anything it takes to give you a wonderful life.

No matter what happens in the future, please know that I am always trying my best. I promise to put your needs above mine, and will drop anything to be there for you when you need me. One day you will be out in this world, all by yourself (and hopefully married with a family one day too), but I want you to know I am always with you.

 Whatever you choose to do in life, or whoever you become, know that I support you.

I challenge you to

Be compassionate...

Make someone's day better without expecting anything in return. Pay it forward. Be a good friend (scratch that - be a GREAT friend.) Care about others feelings and be kind. Show empathy. Help people when they are in need. Make people feel special. 

Work hard for what you want...

 Go the extra mile. Give it all you've got. Try your best. Never give up.

Live your life with adventure...

See the world. Take vacations (lots of them) and don't feel bad about them. Get out there and make memories. Find what makes you most happy. 

Respect others...

Treat others how you would want to be treated. Stick to your values and beliefs. Be a gentleman. Hold open doors for women (even if your guy friends think it's not the "cool" thing to do.) Listen to your parents - they just want what's best for you.

Believe in yourself...

Know your worth. Be confident. 

LAUGH, a lot. And cry, too. 

 Enjoy everyday you are blessed with. Know that after every hard day, there is a good day waiting for you around the corner. Focus on all the good in life and be a positive person to be around. Don't be afraid to cry or show emotion. Most importantly, be yourself.

 And always remember to love and call your mom, she's knows best. ;)

(oh, and Dad is pretty awesome too. I hope you learn a lot from him.)

Love,

Your mom

 

{both photos taken by Rachel Jacobus!}