Today you turn 12. That's an important age...right there between childhood and adulthood, perched precariously at the point where you're too old for a lot of things but too young for many others. You're growing up so fast. It doesn't seem like any time at all since you were just a thought...a wish.
From the moment your father and I married, we knew we wanted you. Your name was chosen long before we knew we would have you...André...strong and manly. Just the idea of you brought joy to our lives. It took a few years, but eventually we were blessed and found ourselves awaiting your entrance to the world.
You must have been eagerly anticipating greeting the world as well, because you decided to arrive 2 months earlier than science and nature intended. It was a very frightening time for us. You were SO small, so fragile, clinging to life. The doctors thought you would be hospitalized for at least 2, maybe 3 months...but what a fighter you turned out to be! We brought all 4 pounds, 7 ounces of you home with us only 15 days after you were born, and ever since then, we've marvelled at your strength.
You've grown into a fine young man, worthy of the name chosen for you so long ago. Smart, witty, dedicated, athletic, kind, and sensitive...all the things I ever wished and hoped you would become. You have handled the transitions we've endured the past few years like a champion and for that I am eternally grateful and extremely proud. You are a wonderful role model for your two little brothers, who both look up to you for guidance, strength, and most importantly, love.
You'll be faced with many choices in the years to come. I know in my heart that you will make choices that are healthy...choices that will help you to become the best man that you can be. I look forward to helping you make those choices, and guiding you towards manhood in the best way I know how.
I couldn't ask for, or be more proud of, the son you are today and the man you will become. I love you very much.
What an awesome, heartfelt letter. I'm sure he feels the same about his mom. Congratulations on having such a soul to raise and doing so well this far. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Okay....I have a bit knot in my throat :) Wonderful letter....from a wonderful mom. They grow up so fast.....hold on to this moment....because, like you mentioned, he's on that teetering edge of being a boy becoming a man.
...and who say's guys can't be emotional? Gave me the goosebumps (happy ones)! ;^) Laurie, that is a wonderfully written letter and your son is lucky to have you for a Mom.
I imagine, as Robert pointed out, that Andr'e may get a bit red in the face over this - but I'll bet this comes up as a story for his grandkids someday. ;^)
Happy birthday Andre!
What a wonderful letter Laurie. And remember to pull out the 'nudie' pic when he starts bringing girls home! Us guys just love that ;-P
You should print all of this out and someday, when you've really screwed up and your mom is angry at you, pull this out and give it to her. Wouldn't hurt for you to read it occasionally too.
Probably will only work once, maybe twice, for getting you out of the doghouse, so save it for when you've really screwed up bad.
That is a really touching letter to your son on his 12th birthday. It brought tears to my eyes, as I have 2 sons and felt like you did before they had even entered the world.
He is the well adjusted person he is today because of the way you have guided him through his life, with your love, commitment and bond.
You should be just as proud of yourself as you are of him.
Happy Birthday Andre! Hope you're not too embarassed by this love-filled letter from mom and from all these strangers sending our best wishes but I'm sure even if you are that you appreciate it all too.
I know how proud Laurie is of you, not only on your birthday but everyday and would like to join in wishing you a wonderful year to come!
Don't let the goofy mushiness bother you. Moms (and most girls) are just like that sometimes. They can't help it. Just grin and bear it, and have a Happy Birthday!
WOW... Happy Birthday André! Don't get too upset with your Mom for getting all sappy about ya - she's only doing it cuz she thinks you rock! I hope you all have a great day!
That is awesome! He may not understand it now but as the years go by he will remember what you said to him as those decisions he happens to come across that confuse him. You rock as a mom! He seems like a fine young man.
