To My Oldest:

Dear Caleb,

You did it. You successfully made it through the worst two years of your life (mostly unscathed). Junior High was mean to you, but you endured it and because of the hardships that you experienced, you are a better and stronger person. Your self-esteem might be bruised but your heart is good. I know there were days where you just wanted to give up. I know there were days where you felt alone and defeated. What I love about you is your tenacity and ability to rise above any challenge or hardship you face. You have learned to make the best of any situation and not stress about things you cannot change. Your struggles certainly aren't over. Living through braces and puberty aren't going to be fun, but you will survive.

I'm so grateful for your self driven personality. I never had to ask you to do your homework or hassle you about projects you had to get done. I never had to wake you up in the mornings and hound you to get ready. That made my life so much easier.

I'm excited about your future and what it holds for you. I have no doubt you will do great things. I'm hopeful that High School will be a little nicer to you. It will be a crucial 4 years that will pave the way for a successful future. I love that you have goals and that you hold yourself to a high standard. That will be the key to your success. If you will always remember where you came from and where you are going, you will be happy. No doubt you will have struggles and bad days, but that is how we grow.

I love you so much and couldn't be more proud of the young man you are becoming.

Love,

Mom