A LETTER FOR Q

Dear Q,

How do I even begin?  

When you came into my world you showed me a love I could never have imagined. From the time you took your first step and spoke your first word, I was right next to you rooting you on.  Every milestone you reached, I felt was a day of celebration and wanted to shout off the rooftops, (and I probably did on Instagram).  You, my sweet boy Q, have taught me the true meaning of unconditional love! 

As you've grown, too damn quickly in my opinion, your personality shines through like no other. You're a fierce little bug with some determination and courage I can't imagine coming from a 1 1/2 year old.  You have a pleasantry about you that I envy and a sensitive soul that I praise.  You're funny, charismatic, kind and give the best cuddles ever; and this is just the beginning.  It amazes me how quickly you've started picking up on people's words, energies and vibes.  I can see it in your face when you're hesitant around someone or something new, but so courageous and confident when you're in your comfort zone. 

Day by day you're taking the next steps in your life, from baby to toddler, to kid, to youth, to teenagar (OMG), to an ADULT.  It scares me and excites me all at the same time. You'll develop your own hobbies, interests, opinions and talents, some which we may not always agree upon, but I want to say, that doesn't change a thing about our relationship.  

You will continue to grow and will experience times of pure happiness and times of utter disappointment.  You will fall in love and you will have your heart broken.  You may even break a few hearts, but strength and resilience will get you through it.

What I say to you today and always is, make your heart the most beautiful thing about you!  This world needs kindness and love, so sprinkle it everywhere you go.  Remember kindness does not cost a thing, so smile at strangers, be good to people without asking for anything in return  and "be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody."  Always be true to yourself!  Do things and be things for you and no one else.  Take risks and learn from each one.  Be unapologetically yourself; there is no one else like you or as unique as you, so shine on my boy! 

One day, you will meet someone.  Someone you will fall deeply in love with and want to spend the rest of your life with (their gender, race, religion, and culture are irrelevant to me).  As long as you are happy, loved, respected and cared for and in turn treat that someone back with the same respect, love and care, I will be happy!

And lastly, there's me and you.  Know that I always have your back, no matter what.  Know that I love you so much more than to the moon and back.  I've said it before and I'll say it again, thank you  for making me a mama, thank you for helping me discover strengths I didn't know I had and facing fears I never knew existed.  Thank you for choosing me!