Dear Nick

I am having a hard time falling asleep tonight.

When I awake...it will be to get you up and ready for your 7th grade school year. It is so incredibly difficult for me to imagine.

I know that you are excited, but for your mom...it means that you are one year closer to graduation and then off to follow your dreams in college. One step closer to stepping away from being a "mamma's boy."

You are such an incredible kid and I am so proud of who you are!

You make me laugh more than you make me upset. You know how to make me smile when I feel like there's not much to smile about. And you can show love like no one else I know.

7th grade is going to be a whole new journey for you. I know...I've been there. My wish is that you hold true to your convictions. Always. Treat others the way you would always like to be treated. And most of all...enjoy your youth. It really does go by way too quickly, and you will never get it back. Build memories. Build relationships. And continue to build that extremely rare and beautiful character that you have begun. The world loves you Nick...

There will be many moments of frustration and discouragement, caused by me and others. But don't let that stand in the way of who you are. Life is hard, but you have proven yourself to be strong.

Don't ever, ever be afraid to come to me whenever you need to talk. I know opening up to a parent can feel uncomfortable, but for 12 years it has been you and I. That will never change. There is nothing that you could ever say or do that would cause me to love you any less. You are my life.

I love you Nick...more than you will ever begin to understand. And I am so very proud of you. You continue to bless my life more and more each and every day...

Love,
Mom

p.s. If you could learn how to become more of a morning person, I would greatly appreciate it! :)