A letter to Landon

Dearest Landon,

On Friday, our family gathered in the Cooper Elementary cafeteria to cheer you on as you received your first award in school. Your teachers nominated you as the "Citizen of the Month" for the month of September. This is the first award of the school year, and you, my sweet boy, were selected for the honor. I can't explain the pride I had for you as your name was called. You really won't understand how I felt until you have children of your own. I know I didn't. My parents told me (and continue to do so) that they were proud along the way, but I didn't know what they were talking about. I almost felt like they just said that because that's what parents do. I know I felt pride for myself when I got a good grade or played an incredible game of soccer or married the man of my dreams. However, I'm not sure I understood why they were so proud--until now. I wish I could put into words how I feel. I wish I could describe it in a way to put a picture of it in your mind. But I can't. It's unexplainable. However, when you have your own children, I hope you look back at this letter and finally understand how your father and I felt the first time we heard "Landon Seabolt" called out to receive an award. I felt like bursting. I felt like love was literally streaming out of me. I felt honored to be your mom.

I know this seems a bit much for an award that I'm pretty confident you'll receive again (because that's who you are). But it's a first for me, so you'll just have to deal with your silly mom.

You are an amazing boy, and I'm continually overwhelmed with your intelligence, your sensitivity, and your drive to succeed. Thank you for making me see that the rewards are worth the tough times. Your mommy is proud of you, kid. Very proud.

So much love to you,
Mommy