letters to my sons : october 2013

This is the first in a year long series of letters to my sons. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and I’m so thankful to join a beautiful group of amazingly talented photographers in this endeavor. Next in the circle is the very talented Laurie Yuenger, please visit her site after mine to travel along the full circle.

N, I’m going to start with you, as you were the one that made me a mother.

You’re 4.5 years old now. Your belly is no longer rounded. Your limbs are increasingly long and lanky. You smell like boy. I refuse to cut your floppy hair, it’s all I have left of your toddlerhood.

You’re an amazing brother. Your little brother clearly thinks you’re the best thing, well, ever, and I’m pretty sure you think the same of him. (Even when he’s being pesky.) You take such good care of him, and I can tell you’re so happy that he joined our family. He’s a very lucky boy to have you in his life.

I often describe you as complicated. You are. You’re so very shy to the outside world, but incredibly talkative and affectionate to those in your inner circle. You can light up a room or empty it, depending on your mood. You are, as they say, “spirited.” You love fiercely and are absolutely determined when you set your mind to something. You’ve been a cautious kid so far, but that’s starting to change. It’s hard to see you struggle with some of these new experiences, but exciting to watch you bravely take on new challenges.

We’re a lot alike. See the photo below? I have many childhood photos of me making that exact expression. I showed you one a while back, and you thought it was an image of you. So, I suppose I deserve that strong will of yours 🙂

You have a heart of gold and give amazing hugs. You’re full of silliness and adventure and boundless energy. You love to make up the most amazing stories, explore new parts of the city, wrestle with your brother, and then snuggle up on the couch with your lucky, lucky mama. (Did I mention the hugs? Seriously, they’re the best.)