tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23620201452644141512024-01-13T11:08:15.314-05:00Prince Alex and Princess Isabella's Momma....and Zachary too!princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.comBlogger265125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-11305641368244996002024-01-13T10:50:00.005-05:002024-01-13T11:07:35.498-05:00Happy 12th Birthday!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJBB35GeWlve7L_Dew_JNbesgKdFxlSShhSpVP90WXv62M6S0d2Zf-RQohlL18WXjKgJX0U_U9Sszs10clE1plIAo9QRjCOTXagR2Z9nNw8ReHhijTvO6oOiBg4qEbR1HD0HotrXyRPV1KR8FrfYWrG2sQFhvTKDFPhOmVE_nDqI7Vla1z9aPDAzL3uYY/s4032/C834243F-B417-4C04-BB81-AE7F3AEBB9A9.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJBB35GeWlve7L_Dew_JNbesgKdFxlSShhSpVP90WXv62M6S0d2Zf-RQohlL18WXjKgJX0U_U9Sszs10clE1plIAo9QRjCOTXagR2Z9nNw8ReHhijTvO6oOiBg4qEbR1HD0HotrXyRPV1KR8FrfYWrG2sQFhvTKDFPhOmVE_nDqI7Vla1z9aPDAzL3uYY/s320/C834243F-B417-4C04-BB81-AE7F3AEBB9A9.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Dear Zach, </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Happy 12th birthday to my baby boy! One more year until you are a teenager, but in many ways you already act like one. You love to stay up late, play video games, hang out with Alex and his friends, and argue for the sake of arguing. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">The highlight of this past year was when we surprised you with a trip to Universal Studios. We picked you up from school and headed to the airport. We spent three days in the parks from open to close. You guys rode every roller coaster and I even went on some rides too. We had the best weekend. You ask to go back at least once a week. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5EC-dL1CJNvgm_fHe0frRZm5cVvTVWzfAxjjr63iTRoN0YkkcQ2fjU2bJArOruWUv3soRIGJGvbiRuNlBGGMblF0ffGW_2NFlFS_8IszjSLkyWTbQ5iOjTmgk7cv4-jbsCcRUhgKwfDm2l275P-gQlGTheXAMfNyGb6dT9iVZpDO581CWo0V27wLhjVi/s1209/E8389F6A-B667-4761-AA87-522EB1EC33BA.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="1150" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5EC-dL1CJNvgm_fHe0frRZm5cVvTVWzfAxjjr63iTRoN0YkkcQ2fjU2bJArOruWUv3soRIGJGvbiRuNlBGGMblF0ffGW_2NFlFS_8IszjSLkyWTbQ5iOjTmgk7cv4-jbsCcRUhgKwfDm2l275P-gQlGTheXAMfNyGb6dT9iVZpDO581CWo0V27wLhjVi/s320/E8389F6A-B667-4761-AA87-522EB1EC33BA.jpeg" width="304" /></a></div><br /><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 9px 0px 8px;"><br /></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">You are in middle school this year! Middle school at Gilman is one of the coolest places (says me, a former teacher). You love switching classes and how fast the day seems to go. You may forget a book now and then or get to Language Arts class a few minutes late (traffic!) but you are getting straight A’s and always get your homework done. Your teachers have nothing but good things to say about you. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">You have lots of friends and Izzy’s and Alex’s friends all treat you like a little brother. It makes me smile every time someone sees you and says “Ziggy!” because everyone knows you and loves you. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Your bond with Stella is as strong as ever, and I love that she is one of your best friends! Every boy needs a girl best friend. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">You are so easy to love. You are funny, kind, loyal, and quick witted. And that mischievous smile of yours is contagious. Your inappropriate jokes and use of curse words gets you in trouble, but as a third child, I admit you get away with too much. But I know when push comes to shove, you make the right choices and stand up for others. But you also know when to walk away from a fight, not because you are scared of confrontation, but because I have taught you it is usually the person who reacts that loses. Being the bigger person is always a sure way to win! </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRschR_ipeab4iEOhB4SNRwcSyg1lxBT2vu6a23J0nsCo3jJWguE2THvSdzDgT5ur7u423mMgyL8XDrWRtDH3gWVsVCBpi-339Ujw-PSLLSBtb_IPO7jvv6t3X-u9HmsEDuwGZhWacvDVra4tS69ktPQjfdumiXN8hPNIvlpO3XI6bWJUHzwdAnVQSBK2r/s3088/7F745457-06D6-459D-A86B-FD6799DAA306.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRschR_ipeab4iEOhB4SNRwcSyg1lxBT2vu6a23J0nsCo3jJWguE2THvSdzDgT5ur7u423mMgyL8XDrWRtDH3gWVsVCBpi-339Ujw-PSLLSBtb_IPO7jvv6t3X-u9HmsEDuwGZhWacvDVra4tS69ktPQjfdumiXN8hPNIvlpO3XI6bWJUHzwdAnVQSBK2r/s320/7F745457-06D6-459D-A86B-FD6799DAA306.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p class="p4" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 9px 0px 8px;"><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Besides playing video games (too many video games), you play lacrosse and flag football. You also started wrestling. It is not an easy sport and takes a lot of mental grit, not to mention physical stamina. It isn’t easy <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>to get back up, but you do. And we are proud of you for trying something new and difficult. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Cheers to you my sweet boy! Have the happiest day and the best year ever. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><br /><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I love you more, </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Mom</span></p></div>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-40758984036543156242023-12-10T08:26:00.001-05:002023-12-10T08:26:28.602-05:00Happy 18th Birthday!<p> <span style="font-size: 13pt; text-align: right; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">November 1, 2023</span></span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-501c8da0-7fff-a27e-e87c-2782dde631fe"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dear Alex,</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I have been writing letters to you since before you were born. For 18 years, I have expressed my love, pride, and hopes for you through these letters. I can’t believe I am writing a letter for you to read at your Senior Retreat. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I picture you in my mind, I see a baby with fat cheeks and huge brown eyes. I see a toddler in a Spiderman costume. I see a boy playing in the ocean, shooting hoops in the driveway, and doing flips on the trampoline. But now when I look at you, I see an amazing young man. One who is a good friend, a capable and diligent student, and a loyal and loving son and big brother who truly lives by the motto </span><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Family First</span><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. And if you ever doubt yourself, take a moment to see yourself through my eyes, and you will be reminded that you truly are a gift to this world. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It has been a busy fall of essay writing and submitting applications. I know you are anxiously awaiting decisions as you get ready for the next stage of your life, but promise me that you will enjoy your Senior Year. The past 6+ years at Gilman have been a time of change, challenges and accomplishments. Celebrate each of these and the experiences yet to come as you approach graduation.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One more request, and I know this may sound cheesy, but cherish the moments you have with us, your family, this year. Because no matter where you land next fall, we will always be your home. So promise to save us some Friday nights for </span><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Movie Nights!</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="border: medium; display: inline-block; height: 215px; overflow: hidden; width: 203px;"><img height="200" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/HJ_Or9768x_q9zenOSazIEjMmtyqMbNucwdnTi1bo36xqNAxM5GqAplvo7Di3nubz2Xvqe44cixU-hflcfH67mKCM5eOeA2tSFvLsl2_mrkFKGu8cQdwMHRHgh0bJxlO-EJRKwEBVMsuYIuoYqDCXKY=w150-h200" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="150" /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I love you with all my heart 💗,</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Mom</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">….to be continued on your 18th birthday</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">December 10, 2023</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alex, </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The above letter was a surprise and was read to you at your Senior Retreat. And while the letter itself may have been a surprise, I am sure my words were not. You know how much I love you. Actually, you know that I love you, but I don’t think you could ever really know how much. Over 18 years of letters and I never could truly put into words just how much my heart loves you. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The moment you made me a mom, I knew I would never be the same. It was as if my purpose for living was made clear to me. In those early morning hours of December 10, 2005, I knew that you would forever be “my person.” And now in what feels like a blink of an eye, here we are, 18 years later. And I am so proud.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Even though you are 18 and all grown up, I will always be your mom. You will always be my baby boy. I am here for you forever. But I hope, in some ways, I have done my job and given you the tools you need to go out into this world and make it a better place. And if you ever falter, just remember Gilman’s motto “in tuo lumine lumen.” Always know that in your light, we see the light. You are the light of my life, and now is your time to shine that light for the world to see. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I could never love another human more,</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Mom</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc_szQYb-G0s28nY2YK4q38pbuq1U3fdqQTOmUCEgM7Aff6PCI0GWauhdP-65t-oD9FoyGOVwZKFW7ICWa-HCz3Jgbr38slVIbeB3qlO_EiZ-XHXFrvcUeFYt6yE0A8Nocbl7CdpRfqSiE8cfAYg37BddtBN7E90ffvldJV7iMy2MuywCP5zL1h3TpZqJ/s2437/DSC01373.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2437" data-original-width="1828" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc_szQYb-G0s28nY2YK4q38pbuq1U3fdqQTOmUCEgM7Aff6PCI0GWauhdP-65t-oD9FoyGOVwZKFW7ICWa-HCz3Jgbr38slVIbeB3qlO_EiZ-XHXFrvcUeFYt6yE0A8Nocbl7CdpRfqSiE8cfAYg37BddtBN7E90ffvldJV7iMy2MuywCP5zL1h3TpZqJ/s320/DSC01373.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><br /><br /></span><br /></span>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-1134921951033391292023-09-01T12:06:00.000-04:002023-09-01T12:06:54.768-04:00Happy 15th Birthday!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3VIVp9aXiHBuqqnYGOkV02HGJXQW3l8H_k9V61VYTNoYM3Dl6krFzE0fIEsGCPVjxX5fXad-iXKsawwrOOlb9sfOYRCl5FthBpSRiwRspH5NUYLO_frKxI_fJUM7PrEugYDP9zre-oEnFpQ0YK-A6HlLAuvRz3vdmRcH-okDJ18LML-0NbIEpWKW0OI55/s960/D795B2E4-26D7-43CB-BBB2-95AA97F885DB.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="639" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3VIVp9aXiHBuqqnYGOkV02HGJXQW3l8H_k9V61VYTNoYM3Dl6krFzE0fIEsGCPVjxX5fXad-iXKsawwrOOlb9sfOYRCl5FthBpSRiwRspH5NUYLO_frKxI_fJUM7PrEugYDP9zre-oEnFpQ0YK-A6HlLAuvRz3vdmRcH-okDJ18LML-0NbIEpWKW0OI55/s320/D795B2E4-26D7-43CB-BBB2-95AA97F885DB.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">Dear Izzy,</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;"> </span><p></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Happy 15th birthday! I say it every year, but I can’t believe it! Time is going by too quickly. It feels like yesterday we were celebrating your third birthday with a tea party or your tenth with a sleepover. This weekend we will celebrate with family brunch and a Morgan Wallen concert! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">This week you started high school, and I am so excited for you. You are going to be challenged and endless opportunities are going to be at your fingertips over the next four years. You are playing JV field hockey and got voted team captain. And I love that you and Alex have back to back classes with the same teacher for Computer Science and you get to see each other during the day. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSurs_5vOUU0p3n_iAR48fBrQObcowhGCr1gipPnZA3_JsrryJIFzN1XpQ9z4JqACJsINjOBvC9zhKpHFNqNZBmGhbYn7RSniReFbebA42yJ_KbGWJQTT-3O4tbOyCIiA-ZIbl_1h_fiIY2ytXdqsNen7LMVp9Dhkc_Ytvnj_7AShthuh49F570jmLqf4/s480/0D4EDEDA-2844-4A5F-8606-9C8D791BECED.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="303" data-original-width="480" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSurs_5vOUU0p3n_iAR48fBrQObcowhGCr1gipPnZA3_JsrryJIFzN1XpQ9z4JqACJsINjOBvC9zhKpHFNqNZBmGhbYn7RSniReFbebA42yJ_KbGWJQTT-3O4tbOyCIiA-ZIbl_1h_fiIY2ytXdqsNen7LMVp9Dhkc_Ytvnj_7AShthuh49F570jmLqf4/s320/0D4EDEDA-2844-4A5F-8606-9C8D791BECED.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 9px 0px 8px;"><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">We went on some great trips this year. Key West for New Year’s, Universal Studios for President’s weekend, college tours with Alex for Spring break, and the beach. After the lacrosse season ended we headed to the beach for a month. I loved spending time with you at our favorite place. <br /></span></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlH8Ur_GpfzTJjtMLctKiYWm8hR3O3FEf3X9qjj7ildXzfzVAUU4TLnXgQVjtZ_KiX4S4r2JNdtcDKiRHxVsPqYHKwk3_nNGl73HtsZsVr9_cyBdq7I24beHQLdDoJJlKWmHcaPfyWOG8OyCYAeOG4SiOl5ELPw6CNAn2RcHoyROk0kx8wSM_PYUETmTTh/s2795/0F4788F4-ACB0-40C8-89CE-7B1D910A5517.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2795" data-original-width="2610" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlH8Ur_GpfzTJjtMLctKiYWm8hR3O3FEf3X9qjj7ildXzfzVAUU4TLnXgQVjtZ_KiX4S4r2JNdtcDKiRHxVsPqYHKwk3_nNGl73HtsZsVr9_cyBdq7I24beHQLdDoJJlKWmHcaPfyWOG8OyCYAeOG4SiOl5ELPw6CNAn2RcHoyROk0kx8wSM_PYUETmTTh/s320/0F4788F4-ACB0-40C8-89CE-7B1D910A5517.jpeg" width="299" /></a></div><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 9px 0px 8px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">As much as I miss that little curly-haired girl, I love watching you as you grow into a beautiful young woman. You have become more independent and reserved. Your reserved nature makes you introspective, thoughtful, and you tend to sit back and observe the world around you before putting yourself out there. Maybe you are a little shy and maybe you are scared of being hurt by others, but know that everyone in this world would be lucky to have you shine your beautiful light on them. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I know this time of your life is a time of learning, change, and a quest for freedom. As your mom, I will try to respect your need to pave your own way. But believe it or not, there will be times when you will need guidance and advice, so know that I’m always here for you. There is nothing in this world you can’t tell me. I will be here for you cheering you on and encouraging you for all of your life. No matter how old you get, you will always be my sunshine, my best girl. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I love you,</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Mom</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_fGB6lnvCaWvoMktQhPMVao9e0wxiGSTJ4pk_3sseAVa5tDY5DB6zlhbXPgk7yLbrMgjT4i1yVuJKB9WViUF53EgMZwQ1I8at4hiPyJc1sI9R-ViUX_i-X8UKMJrgzMaUGBbAnT4KpxYL7J2OhWXYbB32nUL6yr3sV0JxsHGECzu8TEvIzw4UWiTHyr_I/s3236/868BCFE6-DDD2-453F-BDEA-DC269DD81D00.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3236" data-original-width="1904" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_fGB6lnvCaWvoMktQhPMVao9e0wxiGSTJ4pk_3sseAVa5tDY5DB6zlhbXPgk7yLbrMgjT4i1yVuJKB9WViUF53EgMZwQ1I8at4hiPyJc1sI9R-ViUX_i-X8UKMJrgzMaUGBbAnT4KpxYL7J2OhWXYbB32nUL6yr3sV0JxsHGECzu8TEvIzw4UWiTHyr_I/s320/868BCFE6-DDD2-453F-BDEA-DC269DD81D00.jpeg" width="188" /></a></div><br />princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-56290771260403712822023-01-13T15:25:00.003-05:002023-01-13T15:26:26.572-05:00Happy 11th Birthday <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGlfAQQsbbZQUaFHVF0t4laW6-eZUz8LmXEW_P8BnMQzom2c72JIoeTSLVq1GwkK4PqcV0-lS8rHmcXH7bVYkQ_1_x2kMYH08kC0ENY7LiazhnTCL3v_leUC5lk_Iv2T2S2mYv8nASO4EMCSDerMg0ZkQp8T4QQpBXiirOrxuJ14qOM1GlF78bLNmlMg/s4032/IMG_3021.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGlfAQQsbbZQUaFHVF0t4laW6-eZUz8LmXEW_P8BnMQzom2c72JIoeTSLVq1GwkK4PqcV0-lS8rHmcXH7bVYkQ_1_x2kMYH08kC0ENY7LiazhnTCL3v_leUC5lk_Iv2T2S2mYv8nASO4EMCSDerMg0ZkQp8T4QQpBXiirOrxuJ14qOM1GlF78bLNmlMg/s320/IMG_3021.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1ALZTkpRSZJqy3O_8rEnDUGuFxuByNPDzMGVbJm10LGKtmZkTuFRh2Z4ZBX8HgZEAhTfBv31N8q6h5lqZm2TeAhOCgR-oyLR89rw-s5-RZ4fZWvoGrFvPB0A70djag12BPsyAP9FQH3KKO6CB07DqFcnw5orjtg1OuBr2riPp7Lt2Gp_Q6mIOlF_iQ/s4032/IMG_5650.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1ALZTkpRSZJqy3O_8rEnDUGuFxuByNPDzMGVbJm10LGKtmZkTuFRh2Z4ZBX8HgZEAhTfBv31N8q6h5lqZm2TeAhOCgR-oyLR89rw-s5-RZ4fZWvoGrFvPB0A70djag12BPsyAP9FQH3KKO6CB07DqFcnw5orjtg1OuBr2riPp7Lt2Gp_Q6mIOlF_iQ/s320/IMG_5650.heic" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizCs2WP4YAbMwbwykKLKMNfihjVr8bx6P2mYcvO2q_v-JC3jDqbIQOCW3_RrrFLkwqzVaiNsmqR-IiI3sfSTFQRvwyj-8EtTzL4r82X6uxCWbR9nptwX8bOeChgW0BvKLg9_Tqu9nCiYb9d0jTLhqrljfhKt2SBc8sNZN-y4Jojha1Sbc7eCcc4pXQg/s4032/IMG_6220.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizCs2WP4YAbMwbwykKLKMNfihjVr8bx6P2mYcvO2q_v-JC3jDqbIQOCW3_RrrFLkwqzVaiNsmqR-IiI3sfSTFQRvwyj-8EtTzL4r82X6uxCWbR9nptwX8bOeChgW0BvKLg9_Tqu9nCiYb9d0jTLhqrljfhKt2SBc8sNZN-y4Jojha1Sbc7eCcc4pXQg/s320/IMG_6220.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Dear Zachary,</span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Happy 11th birthday to my baby. I am so sorry that I’m not home to celebrate. But I know your grandparents and brother and sister will spoil you today. And I promise to make it up to you. Just wait and see</span><span class="s3">😉</span><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I can’t believe you are in 5th grade. You are doing so well in school, and I am so impressed with your work ethic and your effort. When you make mistakes and are given the chance to make corrections, you always do, even if that means extra homework or raising your grade from a 96% to a 97%. You also have had some cool successes outside of the classroom. You auditioned and made the Treble T’s choral group, and you made the travel basketball team this year. You are also playing lacrosse and flag football. You are hoping to play tackle football in middle school. You enjoy “working out” with dad in the basement and shooting hoops in the driveway with Alex and Izzy. You love to play football at recess with your buddies. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">This year we went on trips to Turks and Caicos, UNC and Key West. We spent lots of time this summer at the pool and the beach. You love being in the water and fishing too. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I love you so much, and I’m pretty sure I’m still your favorite person in the world. I don’t know how long that will be the case, but I am relishing every minute. I love the loyalty you have for your whole family. You are the youngest in our family of five, but in some ways you seem like an older brother. You are always looking out for your brother and sister, and you love picking on them too. You are a best friend to Stella and a great big cousin to Scarlett and Chris. You are sweet to your grandparents and aunts and uncles. You can tease like the best of us , and that evil grin and your love for inappropriate jokes always manage to get a laugh. You think you are a teenager and always want to hang with the teenagers in our family and with Alex’s friends. Over Christmas break, Jake and Luke spent the night and nothing made me happier than the midnight nerf battle. There was no doubt that you and Jake were going to beat Luke and Alex </span><span class="s3">😜</span><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">You still give the best hugs. Now when you hug me, you are almost as tall as me. It won’t be long until I’m officially the shortest person in our family. But you know what I’m going to say next, no matter how tall you are or how many birthdays you have, you will always be my baby. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">I love you so very much,</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Mom</span></p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-32117766044563464022022-12-11T19:22:00.000-05:002022-12-11T19:22:26.226-05:00Happy 17th Birthday!<p> <span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Dear Alex, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Happy 17th Birthday! Being a mom has been the biggest joy of my life. But the fact that every year seems to go by a little faster than the last, makes me wish for time to slow down. To be completely honest, if I found a genie's lamp, I would trade my three wishes for one, to go back to December 10, 2005 and live every minute all over again! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">You finished 10th grade with amazing grades, and this summer you got your license and off you drove to your first job as a lifeguard. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtOh19Q8-1exzqVNt47YMek4O9OUmBwDHd30_-yw8WA3ZYDn1V8b-FPgdrex_iZMa8Qhs-XpzT8vVhGTQm9CCisKQVLP_2l-YRmwK7_0oPArifhmoSTXEzBeVf6Xq1CO8N84cX4ESqqhUa1lViiiu5rYn3gn5-s5LMhHpnYK4Nk-Gi9eiWVn5kAuRoQ/s4032/IMG_2964.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtOh19Q8-1exzqVNt47YMek4O9OUmBwDHd30_-yw8WA3ZYDn1V8b-FPgdrex_iZMa8Qhs-XpzT8vVhGTQm9CCisKQVLP_2l-YRmwK7_0oPArifhmoSTXEzBeVf6Xq1CO8N84cX4ESqqhUa1lViiiu5rYn3gn5-s5LMhHpnYK4Nk-Gi9eiWVn5kAuRoQ/s320/IMG_2964.HEIC" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABrcKqx9gpmgGQUNKYkm9Yw6aFEy0qRNQKED3nVLMRc2KdNaUBtzybGPLCpvmE2hb2SyslVOUFYhEanvXDA07b5VPULEF9kjJc_8_8ziMeiJshFOL1xY5EQxOR-DGQSgPHQ8XvQPVkp7tjC91rBaHnAzh5_2bBYXh-9RhHlZXmLh9qLyn5xjvuAeVtQ/s3088/67761619704__A056A7C7-F031-4DD3-A8A6-991003CB5849.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABrcKqx9gpmgGQUNKYkm9Yw6aFEy0qRNQKED3nVLMRc2KdNaUBtzybGPLCpvmE2hb2SyslVOUFYhEanvXDA07b5VPULEF9kjJc_8_8ziMeiJshFOL1xY5EQxOR-DGQSgPHQ8XvQPVkp7tjC91rBaHnAzh5_2bBYXh-9RhHlZXmLh9qLyn5xjvuAeVtQ/s320/67761619704__A056A7C7-F031-4DD3-A8A6-991003CB5849.heic" width="240" /></a></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I can't believe you are a Junior in high school, driving your brother and sister to school, taking the SAT's, and starting the college search to find the next place you will call home. You are a Peer Educator for 9th graders, a mentor to a student in lower school, and you tutored in the Bridges program. You spend your evenings playing basketball, lifting weights, studying and watching every show on Netflix. On the weekends, you are usually hanging out with your friends at dances, parties, or in our basement. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Here are some things I want you to remember. They will serve you well now and as an adult, which technically will happen in 364 days. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;">1. Look people in the eye when you speak to them. </span>Be a good friend. Say you are sorry when you are wrong. Apologizing is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of self-awareness and strength.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p></p><p></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">2. Trust your gut when it comes to decision-making.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> In the words of Jiminy Cricket, "<i>Always let conscience be your guide.</i>" If you you are ever unsure of what to do, think to yourself, <i>"What would my mom want me to do?" </i>You know I would never lead you astray, so always think of me as your moral compass. And know, no matter what, you can call me any time of the day or night. (<i>I think you and your friends already know this one).</i></span></span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">3. Family is everything. Take care of your sister. Be a role model for your brother. Talk to your dad. Respect your mama. Spend time with your grandparents. </span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">4. There are going to be moments that make you feel invincible and it will feel amazing… embrace those moments...but promise me you’ll remember that you are mortal. Testing limits is okay, but some boundaries are there for a reason.</span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">5. Be friends with girls. Make them laugh. Be respectful and genuine. Talk to them and listen to them. I promise when you are in a relationship these things will matter, because being friends with, and truly liking the person you love, is a vital part of being a good partner.</span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">6. Not everyone was raised the way that you were. Your roots were planted to ground you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> But you were raised to go out into the world and live a good, meaningful life. Wherever life takes you, remember the four of us will always be your home. </span></span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">7. I will be here for you. Things change, but I will always be your constant. That was a promise I made when I first held you on that cold December morning when it was just you and me in that hospital room, and one I will keep for my whole life. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wQ5mir6io8T9YwyQtBNffQfiyxXBXnYWrpMWN5jXEQzdxQXvJRPK-_KUACUpys9d9mPX2_Y9xvoEUfO3WKa7EjEcNj5kPKcBg1S80jLwCTOSKCtdymyf1vqY7Y88Hr4mC0oyqubCFIG8eLz-IEk2d6ZGGD1SEopCQij7Tc2iWl_cEvd9g8-LfiSw4A/s3088/IMG_3386.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ84VoA9wUndNdS6EKIopqbh3KSdVN3MwbGhP_tsdI72iupgg4ePz7kjuhz6mHlWlphytB5V-Zc78MS405CGJaOMx0jgTUHjPJy3lru0AN8SM-bZUVy2Tcf7DRG-Ia9_WerCw61kkpBMi85rW_M17iCBPAHFnUw-GGTA4Ogq6LIOvP-lFjEljJf335Tg/s1200/IMG_5480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1082" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ84VoA9wUndNdS6EKIopqbh3KSdVN3MwbGhP_tsdI72iupgg4ePz7kjuhz6mHlWlphytB5V-Zc78MS405CGJaOMx0jgTUHjPJy3lru0AN8SM-bZUVy2Tcf7DRG-Ia9_WerCw61kkpBMi85rW_M17iCBPAHFnUw-GGTA4Ogq6LIOvP-lFjEljJf335Tg/w290-h320/IMG_5480.JPG" width="290" /></span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wQ5mir6io8T9YwyQtBNffQfiyxXBXnYWrpMWN5jXEQzdxQXvJRPK-_KUACUpys9d9mPX2_Y9xvoEUfO3WKa7EjEcNj5kPKcBg1S80jLwCTOSKCtdymyf1vqY7Y88Hr4mC0oyqubCFIG8eLz-IEk2d6ZGGD1SEopCQij7Tc2iWl_cEvd9g8-LfiSw4A/w240-h320/IMG_3386.HEIC" width="240" /></span></div><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); color: #272727; margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vw5VBaJa0gLQC1FD__zLNzJFuT8Eq4CzTmUwrXiMXW3ql62MdCx9cgPrP57H6nZJp_0nqNfhS2KuW-fKjLX2kDPqpLSdu_qFmHv0EddnBaow2bHVC12i7gUJW-FuNpkaRdcNOCNWUvtFoS18Xdn9fAfmApShqkOPO_dvOvjtbVig7JipGNs6rxUuEQ/s4032/IMG_5112.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vw5VBaJa0gLQC1FD__zLNzJFuT8Eq4CzTmUwrXiMXW3ql62MdCx9cgPrP57H6nZJp_0nqNfhS2KuW-fKjLX2kDPqpLSdu_qFmHv0EddnBaow2bHVC12i7gUJW-FuNpkaRdcNOCNWUvtFoS18Xdn9fAfmApShqkOPO_dvOvjtbVig7JipGNs6rxUuEQ/s320/IMG_5112.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpf5qyEdOreZzP7B_qllGVeO9bRXq6S527VXieuUflccnuKJyIAn8an3Dcjsm6jcYFkFM63WW464nOQ27tyXLt_-kYNFSTvIomxF-5eBpjDM4ZI3ZzIDXdVh3Jz1KXFs-ZoakrhZasBQIv0IHF1qW1sNG50vEewbNHtqY-uAcKVJ3_KxOCrWUJUcqvig/s3088/IMG_5431.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpf5qyEdOreZzP7B_qllGVeO9bRXq6S527VXieuUflccnuKJyIAn8an3Dcjsm6jcYFkFM63WW464nOQ27tyXLt_-kYNFSTvIomxF-5eBpjDM4ZI3ZzIDXdVh3Jz1KXFs-ZoakrhZasBQIv0IHF1qW1sNG50vEewbNHtqY-uAcKVJ3_KxOCrWUJUcqvig/s320/IMG_5431.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I love you so much,</span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Mom</span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">PS- Thanks for being my best friend on Snapchat. Your snaps during the day always make me so happy (well most of them, anyway😜).</span></p><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); color: #272727; margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35WnTQMJmmhE7JORM_2UAHRYr6RUlz8S_vTSmhqH61AYClYIHavsDMuFmX080WqP_yzTHZruG-H8tZrFdqrRLoBDoWgguySh35SFcMeOfPQ7_VorgebHTq-cRSqhKyS4r47KN9YBx0sWEEBcvEKi6xwYHkelCP_JfxOw-UL7LSz9wgjtK-435EH_ITg/s2532/IMG_2541.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2532" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35WnTQMJmmhE7JORM_2UAHRYr6RUlz8S_vTSmhqH61AYClYIHavsDMuFmX080WqP_yzTHZruG-H8tZrFdqrRLoBDoWgguySh35SFcMeOfPQ7_VorgebHTq-cRSqhKyS4r47KN9YBx0sWEEBcvEKi6xwYHkelCP_JfxOw-UL7LSz9wgjtK-435EH_ITg/s320/IMG_2541.PNG" width="148" /></a></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><i>(idea for my "7 things" inspired by article "Dear Son at 16, These Are 25 Truths I Want You to Know" by Mehr Lee, Grown and Flown).</i></span></p><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p style="box-sizing: inherit; caret-color: rgb(39, 39, 39); color: #272727; margin: 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="adthrive-ad adthrive-content adthrive-content-4 adthrive-ad-cls" data-google-query-id="CL35wZ2m8vsCFUfuswode1QKZA" id="AdThrive_Content_4_desktop" style="align-items: center; box-sizing: inherit; clear: both; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; justify-content: center; line-height: 0; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; min-height: 334px; overflow-x: visible !important; text-align: center; z-index: 10000001 !important;"></div>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-28761438573673717662022-09-01T12:33:00.007-04:002022-09-01T12:49:57.879-04:00Happy 14th Birthday! <p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> <span style="font-family: Baskerville;">Dear Izzy,</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: Baskerville;"> </span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Happy 14th Birthday.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This year you will take your Seminar class and find your “<i>Voice and Vision.</i>”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>All the parents were asked to write a letter to their daughters by today…your birthday. Good timing, since I always write a letter for your birthday! I love you so much!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You are my best girl!!! </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FGUyXD3nO2kXf_gXJHsvzylOcW5xkUoWuCLbzHVX9WBGJc9uPlHZJzrk8tuxJEr8Jhf-iV4BhfHIQGNA0RCG0SRL6M38_YvSzeh2UT1AusJ38ZaQsiA54UFQBs2TbQcOKB1qAGm3r7iFyH6faAOPKH-b4rwvaUGEDAzO1W9zvZIwlXbPptzGcGHlDw/s2048/B9E307FD-2611-454F-92CC-5BAF2C0E1D50.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FGUyXD3nO2kXf_gXJHsvzylOcW5xkUoWuCLbzHVX9WBGJc9uPlHZJzrk8tuxJEr8Jhf-iV4BhfHIQGNA0RCG0SRL6M38_YvSzeh2UT1AusJ38ZaQsiA54UFQBs2TbQcOKB1qAGm3r7iFyH6faAOPKH-b4rwvaUGEDAzO1W9zvZIwlXbPptzGcGHlDw/s320/B9E307FD-2611-454F-92CC-5BAF2C0E1D50.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><p class="p2" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveAEYekJtt5WKntOrqVJdpKN8mzco0QZBT46VX3cN1ElUiYQK8nQmo5XbQWH2Uo17Pnt0a8PSHg9CytIG9bzL2_Ab9uLS42_y_-Yi2qg5XYyW7Bx100Q5uy9Pbx-rkoQVoCj82CzuxJt4TCQ-_Jo3VZrvgCyvpbzwFt0yW7wKTxNESkptEXqV30ryHw/s1528/F00430E6-12A0-449C-9644-CE7EB56D9232.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1528" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveAEYekJtt5WKntOrqVJdpKN8mzco0QZBT46VX3cN1ElUiYQK8nQmo5XbQWH2Uo17Pnt0a8PSHg9CytIG9bzL2_Ab9uLS42_y_-Yi2qg5XYyW7Bx100Q5uy9Pbx-rkoQVoCj82CzuxJt4TCQ-_Jo3VZrvgCyvpbzwFt0yW7wKTxNESkptEXqV30ryHw/s320/F00430E6-12A0-449C-9644-CE7EB56D9232.jpeg" width="245" /></a></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I know that I am your mom, but I look up to you. I strive to be more like you. I have said it since you were a baby, “<i>you are inherently you</i>.” Even as a little girl, you knew who you were, what you wanted, and how to get it. As beautiful as you are on the outside, you are even more beautiful on the inside. I admire your drive, your determination, your ability to love others but also love yourself. The start of the teenage years haven’t been the easiest. You are not one to put up with drama, and I love that about you, but unfortunately drama is a key component of being a teenager. I know sometimes it is hard for you to “<i>put yourself out there</i>” and to trust your amazingness, but I am so proud of you for doing it, even if you get hurt in the process. You are able to stand up for yourself in a way that exudes strength and grace. Keep being true to yourself, because you shine a light into this world that is so very needed. And those that deserve to have your light brighten their days will find their way to you.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You have a strong moral compass of integrity, loyalty and excellence. Follow it all the days of your life, and you will always be headed in the right direction. Zachary would tell you that integrity is “<i>doing the right thing even when no one is watching</i>.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That isn’t to say you never are going to break a rule or make a mistake, but you know right from wrong and live your life in a way that shows integrity every single day. Your loyalty to your family is commendable. You are the glue that holds this family together. We all have a tremendous amount of respect for you, because you are the one who acts with kindness, reason and sometimes a bit of tough love. You strive for excellence in all that you do.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You always give your best effort in the classroom, on the field, and in our home.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">When I think about your “<i>voice and vision</i>,” I think about all of the art you have created over the years. The beautiful paintings, cards, and drawings that you have given as gifts to those you love, are true acts of love. The creativeness and thoughtfulness that has gone into each one is a testament of your love for each person. Your imagination and innovation are also demonstrated in your school work and projects. You put your best effort into everything that you create.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You may not realize it, but you are a leader. In school, you are a quiet leader. On the field, you are an exuberant leader. At home, you are a cheerleader.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You are still learning and discovering who you are, but I already know you. I know what you are capable of achieving.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Once you learn to see yourself through my eyes and the eyes of everyone who truly sees you, you will be unstoppable.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">My dear sweet, wonderful girl.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I can’t wait to sit back and watch and say, “I told you, Izzy. Mom IS always right!”</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Love you most,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Mom</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: Baskerville; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJG2KNEYJBSUADziLR7WC5qbWvNtAcCRYlQWYitdKR1SImJ0SHb5SwHDuTUBezBIIGMefMZ8bG56eu7GRziacSX_JFNob-7qcVO0zzexAUpMB0kEKKP2LjpbmBUJk3t4jMlgs0_NLqBFO3eYRZJ2e_CBtC_D6kYlL4_3Qwej80a2WnTaWHUMNGyuZQA/s2048/2CF7D3FE-66A3-4DB5-85D1-A69FEEB6E27C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2538" data-original-width="3305" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgizlmZXHI1eqLxEjB-lSVtejHlHUc4MglPR311d1L7zUgEU-g_ffXIusWryIPocOVhpotzAX88FWkyu6ottINJ6iGEYj1bteRT7uQnqpaYtAI-y0X6kwRRZgpKQPzTRkX_1QNX8Icxdo9JuCcloySz5bg1aiZ1iEvd4gyZX-S6b7A3AhlPjBIE7bIeNA/s320/23D6A33F-66C0-4002-B130-DCBBACF893CA.jpeg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgly8cPl_r2fTw9PjSGUu8_vk4RD5biI7Q47a55-BvvTPq7jjaCoaIJfXD-9ZwvsQkrQ0Cxq1lsBynm8phY4pDq5GqwF309Ce6j0ESXYJhYau2V6_eKAEQrTan6U5NIZgv7nccf7SKiBcL4e-Rw1s-x2LIaqvUi9AqWgZxmVQovD5oUDCIiWKaZCFPM3g/s2048/F6537CA5-62CC-475F-B87B-FD862F4333B0.jpeg" style="font-family: Times; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgly8cPl_r2fTw9PjSGUu8_vk4RD5biI7Q47a55-BvvTPq7jjaCoaIJfXD-9ZwvsQkrQ0Cxq1lsBynm8phY4pDq5GqwF309Ce6j0ESXYJhYau2V6_eKAEQrTan6U5NIZgv7nccf7SKiBcL4e-Rw1s-x2LIaqvUi9AqWgZxmVQovD5oUDCIiWKaZCFPM3g/w320-h240/F6537CA5-62CC-475F-B87B-FD862F4333B0.jpeg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUey9LGiPreagz-j1hWZ_eWgAmMccKFJl_B7kZnVmfBBuG6pN3777D39OLtSsuAGSqsTHGvCbz18UZREYwM4tyJyFmet-cC_OOeSzS0V03enFRM8YDCRsc-Y1DLiveVQISJD1ZLSLBYRvQfYpTr1-F6IxyWusoqZHooxCZj35jUhlMRaWax5fvZrWQjg/s2048/B3D2ECC7-CB40-4DA2-B4E3-7FFB7DC8AE68.jpeg" style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUey9LGiPreagz-j1hWZ_eWgAmMccKFJl_B7kZnVmfBBuG6pN3777D39OLtSsuAGSqsTHGvCbz18UZREYwM4tyJyFmet-cC_OOeSzS0V03enFRM8YDCRsc-Y1DLiveVQISJD1ZLSLBYRvQfYpTr1-F6IxyWusoqZHooxCZj35jUhlMRaWax5fvZrWQjg/s320/B3D2ECC7-CB40-4DA2-B4E3-7FFB7DC8AE68.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><p></p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-2480208667700306452022-01-13T15:22:00.000-05:002022-01-13T15:22:36.153-05:00Happy 10th Birthday, Zachary<p> Dear Zachary,</p><p><br /></p><p>Happy 10th Birthday to you. A whole decade of Zachary! Maybe it is because you are my youngest, but I often have to remind myself that you are no longer a toddler. You are growing up but, in my heart you will always be my baby. You are a Momma's Boy, my little protector, my snuggle buddy. I hope it will never change. </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><u>Zachary's Top Ten </u></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></p><p>10. You love family trips. This year we went to Turks and Florida. You swam in Grace Bay, the pools and went on the waterslides. You went fishing in the Keys and caught the most fish and the biggest. You rode a jetski with dad.</p><p><br /></p><p>9. You swam on swim team this summer for the first time. You play basketball, flag football and lacrosse. You love to workout with dad in the basement.</p><p><br /></p><p>8. You are doing well in 4th grade. It is a fun year for me, because it brings back memories of my teaching days. You have great friends in school and an awesome teacher who is a Gilman graduate! You and Grayson are still best buds!</p><p><br /></p><p>7. You spent a lot of time at the beach this summer. You went swimming and to the park. You ate crabs, açaí bowls and ice cream. You spent tons of money at the arcade and took home even more junk, I mean prizes! Bonfires and fireworks on the beach were your favorite.</p><p><br /></p><p>6. You like to read, especially graphic novels and the Diary of the Wimpy Kid series. But you love video games and your Ipad a little more 😉.</p><p><br /></p><p>5. You love french fries, pumpkin muffins, steamed crabs, popcorn and pizza bagels. And this year for your birthday, you asked for old bay wings and coconut cake!</p><p><br /></p><p>4. You are a wonderful artist. You enjoy drawing comics and superheroes. I am always impressed with your artwork. </p><p><br /></p><p>3. You are my wild child. You are the one who bends, and sometimes breaks, the rules. As a rule follower myself, sometimes your "no fear" approach to life drives me crazy, but I also know that it will take you far in life. There is a quote that reminds me of you, "<i>Strong-willed children grow into strong-willed adults who become world leaders, world shapers, and world changers...</i>" I believe in you, Zachary. </p><p><br /></p><p>2. You have a personality that is larger than life. You love to sing. You want to be an actor when you grow up. You love attention and aren't afraid to do just about anything to get it. Making people laugh is your main goal in life. </p><p><br /></p><p>1. You have a heart of gold. You love your family. You are a loyal friend. You say, "I'm sorry," when you are wrong. You are a conscientious student. You love fiercely and you aren't afraid to say it and show it! You have the absolute best smile. When you smile, it lights up the whole world. I love you so very much. And I never doubt you love me too!</p><p><br /></p><p>I hope all your birthday wishes come true.</p><p>Love, Mom</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87IFA9qXJ_FYEAydRguD8lMWwqlhVNrzq0ePiZ8LSLzJcQKt1VT11DpmO3xMyPx0XRDwqmV3OTmg9jTj4aTj6obfZUUompZ32fbtmHoidrm2tadQOlenBDcpXKvuvNVuzJbup2-oe5_X5//" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87IFA9qXJ_FYEAydRguD8lMWwqlhVNrzq0ePiZ8LSLzJcQKt1VT11DpmO3xMyPx0XRDwqmV3OTmg9jTj4aTj6obfZUUompZ32fbtmHoidrm2tadQOlenBDcpXKvuvNVuzJbup2-oe5_X5//" width="180" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjoLuGmH8n0HD4MkqY89rLfr8xiNaygvNqq2UvALKbcsaWqotx1Amm9t50COVQYoLpukEjQwmGERRm5WBydc0JO86TX3YQ_vNoVhj3LcU_kFJSSMEae8j_Y4hVqoH0abfRV3tRYtZMYwPSl46Bt-DjL2fUqWpeLJ3G8dn-PbH6a2LhQzU9fAQf3rDnpA=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjoLuGmH8n0HD4MkqY89rLfr8xiNaygvNqq2UvALKbcsaWqotx1Amm9t50COVQYoLpukEjQwmGERRm5WBydc0JO86TX3YQ_vNoVhj3LcU_kFJSSMEae8j_Y4hVqoH0abfRV3tRYtZMYwPSl46Bt-DjL2fUqWpeLJ3G8dn-PbH6a2LhQzU9fAQf3rDnpA=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-15135981278486025962021-12-11T15:04:00.001-05:002021-12-11T15:17:50.065-05:00Happy 16th Birthday!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> Dear Alex,</span></div><p></p><p>Happy Sweet 16! I think for a mom a son’s 16th birthday is better described as bittersweet. I miss my baby boy and kissing those chubby cheeks, playing Superheroes, and taking you to My Gym. But it has been such a joy (mostly) watching you grow into a loyal, smart, and funny young man. Our relationship has changed over the past few years, but I know you know that I am and always will be your person. The person who will cheer the loudest, have your back, call you out, and always be there when you need to vent or when you don’t want to say a word but just need someone to be present. (Even though you always call me weird) I’m not naive. I know you don’t tell me everything, but I feel so lucky that you feel like you can talk to me. And you can! I am here for you NO MATTER WHAT! </p><p>I love that you and Izzy have found your friendship again. As little ones, you two had the closet relationship and then for a few years you were too cool for your little sister. Over the past year, you have remembered just how awesome she is and how she will always be your biggest fan. She told me many times how happy she is to have you as her big brother and her friend. As a mom, I couldn’t ask for anything better. And Zach. I never thought with six years between you that you guys would fight, but you do. But it isn’t all arguing and teasing between. I see him laughing at silly (and probably inappropriate) TikTok’s with you and showing you his drawings because he wants your approval. I love how you and your friends make him feel like he is famous when you see him in school. I know he drives you crazy at times, but remember he looks up to you, and as the big brother you have to be a good role model and lead by example. He is watching everything you do. Being the oldest is a tough and important job, believe me, I know. But your loyal, kind heart makes you the perfect guy for the job. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3q9Kl94bugSQQZGX4RRTCnIptGdhX0nnLqKz8VuCH63obwuwkAxNYySfTv1hX5zbKfy4y-dWoV9aOr5sWWyx5ZCc-IK9MmzTTpxOGVOSa1e-PswBr1iH-KJ1n3VPfYESJt4TXmK4cyfYa/s2048/8CBF7E2C-BABC-4BC9-81E8-4A9CD5B6FFCD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3q9Kl94bugSQQZGX4RRTCnIptGdhX0nnLqKz8VuCH63obwuwkAxNYySfTv1hX5zbKfy4y-dWoV9aOr5sWWyx5ZCc-IK9MmzTTpxOGVOSa1e-PswBr1iH-KJ1n3VPfYESJt4TXmK4cyfYa/s320/8CBF7E2C-BABC-4BC9-81E8-4A9CD5B6FFCD.jpeg" width="240" /> </a></p><p>I could go on and on about how proud I am, how much I love you, how lucky I am to be your mom, but I have learned that when your son is a teenager sometimes less is more. </p><p>So I will end with my prayer for you this year. </p><p>I pray that you are always kind and use the gifts God has given you for good and service to others. I pray that God keeps you safe when you are behind the wheel. I pray you make good choices, and when you make mistakes, you learn from them. I pray that you always find joy in life even on the tough days!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRXbhU9RGReJTeDw7wYyEKEPVf1P0qbTvaWtr-QMPU-EP_UaSCPNDXtqrEDgwd-OSqFs6Kd8IOE2D3bEk7MgdhHdQYDCHcT3Lc6WH3wNQzm-MEeDthATB6s6snBwEZr_tT0pU-Pv52DEL/s2048/F4AD5986-E5E7-47D2-AEF5-39DD5CDE0A7F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRXbhU9RGReJTeDw7wYyEKEPVf1P0qbTvaWtr-QMPU-EP_UaSCPNDXtqrEDgwd-OSqFs6Kd8IOE2D3bEk7MgdhHdQYDCHcT3Lc6WH3wNQzm-MEeDthATB6s6snBwEZr_tT0pU-Pv52DEL/s320/F4AD5986-E5E7-47D2-AEF5-39DD5CDE0A7F.jpeg" width="320" /></a></p><p>I love you, my #1.</p><p>Mom</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-y1GUZQuo8yawMYykaTSrCxA2gO6z9R4wkcnfiiG0G6H24ebCGm_jTwM9yikfNtzJEwbQcJN-FfMmbQ4JSgKDYp36RY-sne8o65-x2_OOpXltQaG9Wvyb9sHlPSg0NPoPijTkkcR-xQK6/s4032/59BB3BD3-DE6E-417D-83D5-35FDEE06248A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-y1GUZQuo8yawMYykaTSrCxA2gO6z9R4wkcnfiiG0G6H24ebCGm_jTwM9yikfNtzJEwbQcJN-FfMmbQ4JSgKDYp36RY-sne8o65-x2_OOpXltQaG9Wvyb9sHlPSg0NPoPijTkkcR-xQK6/s320/59BB3BD3-DE6E-417D-83D5-35FDEE06248A.jpeg" width="320" /></a>P</p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-82210406431639378972021-09-01T12:07:00.000-04:002021-09-01T12:07:37.044-04:00Happy 13th Izzy<p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Dear Izzy,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">Happy 13th birthday. I cannot believe that you are thirteen. It feels like only yesterday that I was welcoming my brand new baby girl into this world. And now you’re a teenager. You are all legs - I’m so jealous of those legs. You are several inches taller than me now. And that smile of yours can light up a room and is even more beautiful now that you have your braces off! Over the years your style has changed from tutus and dresses to athletic wear to now tank tops and little skirts with some Lululemon thrown into the mix. I feel like you have grown up this year right before my eyes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvj-vH4mFVXWL3FZVZ9hB6nhxmSsDU7SuWLv69phxEjYrBZVvlLk6qaB95rJ3TsvjA6C1IzUqQxdMLavtFeaddcZnbi04bSkWm-kDXy5kEVRcUpz9uwsyoM6YQYBJJUPi8V9Fhphgnly-E/s2048/IMG_1444.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvj-vH4mFVXWL3FZVZ9hB6nhxmSsDU7SuWLv69phxEjYrBZVvlLk6qaB95rJ3TsvjA6C1IzUqQxdMLavtFeaddcZnbi04bSkWm-kDXy5kEVRcUpz9uwsyoM6YQYBJJUPi8V9Fhphgnly-E/s320/IMG_1444.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="p3" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px; min-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiF7j18JZV4dZwm_32ivDsNzPGIB6T4R8vkZzeC1kb3WYbkTTjktqFlTFNJdDVM56_6vAIAfadntyj-85tTnUlBEsykOb0X2_EEq5PveqnczY1xU0xX1kOnNVNmtxApd5A12a8HbCFYUFE/s1242/IMG_5154.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1242" data-original-width="935" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiF7j18JZV4dZwm_32ivDsNzPGIB6T4R8vkZzeC1kb3WYbkTTjktqFlTFNJdDVM56_6vAIAfadntyj-85tTnUlBEsykOb0X2_EEq5PveqnczY1xU0xX1kOnNVNmtxApd5A12a8HbCFYUFE/s320/IMG_5154.HEIC" width="241" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Sixth grade went by in a flash. School was different last year. You were assigned to a pod and the phrase of the year was “social distancing.” You took it in stride and you and the rest of Pod 6-3 made it fun. Your grades were stellar. You were given the opportunity to take a pre-algebra course over the summer in order to get into the honors math track. I left the decision up to you, and you chose to push yourself and it paid off. You were placed in advanced math. I’m so proud that you took on the challenge even though it meant going to school in the summer and doing lots of homework. Your drive and willingness to go the extra mile will take you far in this world. This summer you also played lots of lacrosse and field hockey, spent weeks at the beach, shopped and shopped some more, and completed Junior Life Guard camp.</p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">And in true Izzy fashion we have had so much fun over the last few weeks celebrating this milestone birthday. It started with going to see our favorite singer, Luke Bryan, with Michelle.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="p3" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px; min-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIpvBh5Z1QxaQPHI07OTUfkP9KO6BHRHB7L6xuysZ75J12bLT4PJsPHdM7E4R2CmRWM8VHeOyPXTz6ceZ_9BpS86eTK77t4IU8IU8StNaIitXIHQnWGT81Yant_Sc0mynpO8RDdNyf9Ww/s2048/IMG_5622.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIpvBh5Z1QxaQPHI07OTUfkP9KO6BHRHB7L6xuysZ75J12bLT4PJsPHdM7E4R2CmRWM8VHeOyPXTz6ceZ_9BpS86eTK77t4IU8IU8StNaIitXIHQnWGT81Yant_Sc0mynpO8RDdNyf9Ww/s320/IMG_5622.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Then we went on a girls’ trip with Kaitlyn to the beach. We went to all your favorite stores and restaurants. And of course we spent lots of time at the beach and pool.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="p5" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 9px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpu1ZNe71gju33ekvMu0kw8lg6Y5Uun9Q4SsdcgWMr2pVKw-pg1SkkdfGdYTLiT2ks8Gd8htelBpA3-hMQ42tz93TM7BX3KajnHw13JIkXgtN_lk12BZHKXM_hsBkdbgy6x-oqSirdxRK/s2048/IMG_5689.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpu1ZNe71gju33ekvMu0kw8lg6Y5Uun9Q4SsdcgWMr2pVKw-pg1SkkdfGdYTLiT2ks8Gd8htelBpA3-hMQ42tz93TM7BX3KajnHw13JIkXgtN_lk12BZHKXM_hsBkdbgy6x-oqSirdxRK/s320/IMG_5689.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="p4" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;">And last night, I made you your favorite Italian dinner and we put thirteen candles in your strawberry shortcake. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="p6" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHg8zOO_8yKqfPKpNuHobP0iXCQb1KiFDm4ZVSINPpxSzH7vRgsBivSXTRoVgoqtXb6U2zfuL2RmeVTSWvhks2oLsG46hvsnsWTtSYPw3zkN2gJ0BnI_T6BsJfnQtx0HuCyDfPWowqmVp/s2544/IMG_5796.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2544" data-original-width="1236" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHg8zOO_8yKqfPKpNuHobP0iXCQb1KiFDm4ZVSINPpxSzH7vRgsBivSXTRoVgoqtXb6U2zfuL2RmeVTSWvhks2oLsG46hvsnsWTtSYPw3zkN2gJ0BnI_T6BsJfnQtx0HuCyDfPWowqmVp/w155-h320/IMG_5796.heic" width="155" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="p4" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><p class="p4" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;">Today you started 7th grade. I’m hoping and praying for a more normal school<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>year for you. No matter what the years brings, I can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do!! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p><p class="p5" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 9px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGonW_6hijkkJk0a7DPS4rj2Jn1J_ieATePbo3GTzHFGCprSgkWCFflzZRtFODKZUe96c052pdmNrG9L0hm5UzXlFya-DqcrxIhhlzxlA-8vzg6o_JFIv64-cnfN7HeDJ4x1JJxPxBFI55/s2048/IMG_5831.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGonW_6hijkkJk0a7DPS4rj2Jn1J_ieATePbo3GTzHFGCprSgkWCFflzZRtFODKZUe96c052pdmNrG9L0hm5UzXlFya-DqcrxIhhlzxlA-8vzg6o_JFIv64-cnfN7HeDJ4x1JJxPxBFI55/s320/IMG_5831.heic" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;">Be the light. Be the joy. Be the good. This crazy world needs you and is a better place with you in it.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"> </span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmkBre6mxI5Alo6CUBfA5INu-_F0pMW7dDH6fXzm-RlTOBY9Q2Z-LOHlrPSemasGKe-3MhRD_loOrNtFPD20jIG1kuJbMmGx2fKI15yKZpqpKdY2uoQbTqIIfpePDypBR_g0EOd59_2av/s2048/IMG_5758.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmkBre6mxI5Alo6CUBfA5INu-_F0pMW7dDH6fXzm-RlTOBY9Q2Z-LOHlrPSemasGKe-3MhRD_loOrNtFPD20jIG1kuJbMmGx2fKI15yKZpqpKdY2uoQbTqIIfpePDypBR_g0EOd59_2av/w240-h320/IMG_5758.heic" width="240" /></a></div><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 9px;"><br /></p><p class="p7" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 9px; min-height: 20px;"><br /></p><p class="p6" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">I love you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Mom</p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-57954790903935517742021-01-13T21:10:00.002-05:002021-01-13T21:10:56.868-05:00Happy 9th. Birthday<p> Dear Zachary,</p><p>Happy 9th birthday to my baby boy! What a year! It was 10 months ago today that we canceled our Spring Break trip and were told that we would have to quarantine for two weeks. It seemed unbelievable at the time, yet here we are almost a year later still in the middle of the Covid-19 Pandemic. In the Spring, you finished second grade virtually. It wasn't easy, but we made it through. Over the past 10 months there has been too much time spent on Xbox, many miles hiked as a family, a lot of hours playing in the ocean, and countless movie nights, outdoor playdates and s'mores devoured by the fire. This year, you snowboarded for the first time, received your First Holy Communion, learned how to write in cursive.</p><p>So many things have been canceled but some things, though a little different, still remain a constant. Sports for one...even though lacrosse was canceled last spring, you were able to join the swim team and you are a natural. I am so impressed with your speed and grace in the water. This fall and winter, you have been able to pick back up with lacrosse and play on two flag football teams. I love watching you and Dad practice your football plays in the yard. Being a Gilman Greyhound is another constant in your life. This fall, you returned to school for in-person learning. I thank God every single day for your wonderful teachers who are making this possible. Gilman isn't the same as when you left last Spring. You have to wear masks, and your class size is much smaller because you have to stay "6 feet apart." But you don't mind. You are so happy to be able to go to school and learn with your friends. Today, a sled dog team visited Gilman, because you are learning all about the Iditarod. What a cool way to spend your birthday! </p><p>Zachary, you live life to its fullest. You are loud. You love to make other people laugh, you love to sing at the top of your lungs, and stomp and yell when you don't get your way. You love to push the limits and sometimes you see the line but you cross right over it! You have a kind heart, and when you love someone you would do anything to make them happy. You always show concern and empathy for your friends and family. We are lucky to have you in our lives. </p><p>I love you so much. You are my baby boy, but I see you growing up and becoming more independent. But you still love your momma, and I have a feeling you may stay a Momma's Boy just a bit longer, and I am just fine with that.</p><p>I love you with all of my heart,</p><p>Mom</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdnZ1iFxLrKvNN2Rd98s9M3Yz60Uhqke9agFMvac79xGykDHjPHxhgleLzfOx7po0waA4gksaFZdhn7worvaimZ5g6QImn6tvM6jnQYxfyqSbj1POwb1jhgCATeV_QwzWTila46hC8Xpg/s2048/IMG_1381.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdnZ1iFxLrKvNN2Rd98s9M3Yz60Uhqke9agFMvac79xGykDHjPHxhgleLzfOx7po0waA4gksaFZdhn7worvaimZ5g6QImn6tvM6jnQYxfyqSbj1POwb1jhgCATeV_QwzWTila46hC8Xpg/s320/IMG_1381.HEIC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaP2rVJRPUJGZ7HULBIyzxwqpsJ7kNN0fU3ZCaQQ6Jf8Z0mOnUWVJN5hhwS6xCth80jITkQL6jPW_hRHorLNuxzeu5LyhdtPoNlKvA6F8dDJM-bKU5DdCcTu_IDzV8OXa56OWHf2ega5gt/s1472/0A607871-26AA-43CB-B92B-D157D22237DC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="828" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaP2rVJRPUJGZ7HULBIyzxwqpsJ7kNN0fU3ZCaQQ6Jf8Z0mOnUWVJN5hhwS6xCth80jITkQL6jPW_hRHorLNuxzeu5LyhdtPoNlKvA6F8dDJM-bKU5DdCcTu_IDzV8OXa56OWHf2ega5gt/s320/0A607871-26AA-43CB-B92B-D157D22237DC.JPG" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj7uh2Qsr1CGH90rTb-k4eZ4UHm-dWVD1Molv-76HzxQVxMppjRsz1SYSobqWlL6j_15aL1b_xpvmdWZHXOMLbre4LPyRKlHPn5EGcynaLHSWWw5zpkKrjqxIPscDUePr8fxIKrNo37pw/s4032/IMG_3382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj7uh2Qsr1CGH90rTb-k4eZ4UHm-dWVD1Molv-76HzxQVxMppjRsz1SYSobqWlL6j_15aL1b_xpvmdWZHXOMLbre4LPyRKlHPn5EGcynaLHSWWw5zpkKrjqxIPscDUePr8fxIKrNo37pw/s320/IMG_3382.JPG" /></a></div></div><br /><p></p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-70034122777595143542020-12-10T20:13:00.001-05:002020-12-10T20:13:35.510-05:00Happy 15th Birthday!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJ-eOD9DzVxbPXgyilzqgQxnIN6fClMVAkRCwn5nTnheHt5gxiFHEbJsxR3kowWMZuAKBVNoxVl3pYRHtjMdqYrlYjJYOZNCp9lbYix-ck6JAbEF59X74PjDv5TPU621paFKn8pJFpCUN/s2048/31ED6B9A-5295-4EB2-B6BC-B20C89FF4F2A.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJ-eOD9DzVxbPXgyilzqgQxnIN6fClMVAkRCwn5nTnheHt5gxiFHEbJsxR3kowWMZuAKBVNoxVl3pYRHtjMdqYrlYjJYOZNCp9lbYix-ck6JAbEF59X74PjDv5TPU621paFKn8pJFpCUN/s320/31ED6B9A-5295-4EB2-B6BC-B20C89FF4F2A.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;">Dear Alex,</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;"> </span><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Today you turned 15 years old. You are halfway through freshman year in high school, and as always your work ethic makes me so proud. You were a part of the Cross Country team this fall and you are a Mentor to a lower school boy. You are continuing with your faith journey by preparing for your Confirmation. And your art work amazes me! Dad and I are loving watching you grow from our little boy into a wonderful, talented young man. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">When I held you for the first time as a newborn baby, <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I never in a million years dreamed we would be living through a pandemic fifteen years later. This year has been anything but normal. I know it is tough for you and life doesn’t always seem fair right now, but I am proud of the way you are handling the disappointments and canceled plans. You are able to keep things in perspective. You acknowledge that things aren’t always the way we wish they were, but you keep a positive and healthy attitude. And although things are not normal right now, I feel blessed for all the good this year has brought us. We got extra beach time this summer with our cousins and friends. You are such an amazing big brother (most of the time) and I love watching you take care of Christopher. He thinks you are the coolest! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I’ll never forget your “Zoom” Tie Ceremony and 8th grade graduation. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>And I feel especially lucky that since September you have been able to go to school in person a few days a week.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5I9pdsxZVGl0ci3AVPh7HcQ8vY-wXS0ZoIBCpBFavnMT71kpB-jfIDdToWRDlhl_QH8aHZa6TKq9YSHoAtO7Eq6UT1_QRwx0hlf8vd_l785oBGwDfsPd5_eHgZdc3WHIG3cpQQVKLNMI/s2048/4E33D941-4C82-453A-A598-FC6765F27C75.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5I9pdsxZVGl0ci3AVPh7HcQ8vY-wXS0ZoIBCpBFavnMT71kpB-jfIDdToWRDlhl_QH8aHZa6TKq9YSHoAtO7Eq6UT1_QRwx0hlf8vd_l785oBGwDfsPd5_eHgZdc3WHIG3cpQQVKLNMI/s320/4E33D941-4C82-453A-A598-FC6765F27C75.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWbly6ZbWGnUCEC2GKwj-5coR7OJggbQ804yLSgCKCs_iqI88v5CmVNhThAmiJzJJOrcp6iXOBv9hmbframQQ7skDTsj-qeD2BPHZPLixBSNxPrHKISJERdS8SWloI_6W5z2ETQlj3UGj/s1472/92327694-F18F-4DDD-A7B3-EF7355BEAC6F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="828" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWbly6ZbWGnUCEC2GKwj-5coR7OJggbQ804yLSgCKCs_iqI88v5CmVNhThAmiJzJJOrcp6iXOBv9hmbframQQ7skDTsj-qeD2BPHZPLixBSNxPrHKISJERdS8SWloI_6W5z2ETQlj3UGj/s320/92327694-F18F-4DDD-A7B3-EF7355BEAC6F.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mRSE4T3-dKAN9VABSQIqGqcVqrlEdoDfcoIWZ4vcekpv74SzpE7BpSxR8UMGnir9eSnhc7IY7Ni_TfkCLSrf4wE_9pZr9xNIhwWPiExM_YhOzRW_jXBJyuPABK09vKAbO_bU05Nzq9h6/s2048/422D595B-A8EE-4722-9DE2-9EC19C6BAFC3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mRSE4T3-dKAN9VABSQIqGqcVqrlEdoDfcoIWZ4vcekpv74SzpE7BpSxR8UMGnir9eSnhc7IY7Ni_TfkCLSrf4wE_9pZr9xNIhwWPiExM_YhOzRW_jXBJyuPABK09vKAbO_bU05Nzq9h6/s320/422D595B-A8EE-4722-9DE2-9EC19C6BAFC3.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">You are such a loyal and great friend. Your friends are lucky to have you and they are amazing friends in return. You have the nicest friends, and I believe it is because you get what you give. And for once I am thankful for technology, social media and video games. You have all managed to stay close and laugh and have fun even when you can’t be together in person! I know you’re happiest on the days you get to go to school on campus, but a part of me likes the days when you are home with me. It reminds me of when you were little and it was just the two of us all day. Of course, now you are usually in your room doing school work or sleeping instead of making me watch The Wiggles on repeat! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">At fifteen, on one hand you think you know it all! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But on the other hand, you still come to me to talk and vent. I will always be here for you. Dr. Mo, your high school counselor, said something the other day that really stuck with me. He said that as your parents we should be your safety net not your training wheels. You will make mistakes and you will fall down. It is not our job to stop you, but instead we need to catch you and help you get back up. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Never forget that! Even though I will always see you as my baby, I respect your quest for independence as you navigate your teenage years. </span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 9px 0px 8px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I love you, My Christmas Baby. Fifteen years ago, all I wanted for Christmas was you! You will always and forever be my best Christmas gift ever. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I love you with all of my heart! </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Mom</span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 9px 0px 8px;"><br /></p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-56270494532502520722020-08-31T21:39:00.000-04:002020-08-31T21:39:37.891-04:00Happy 12th Birthday!<div class="separator"><p style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></p></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Dear Izzy,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well. This has been a year we will never forget! It has been a year of "changes!" Your first school year at Bryn Mawr was off to a great start. You made new friends and excelled in your classes. You were busy taking dance classes, playing field hockey, and baking, painting and drawing in your free time. You were invited to play on a new lacrosse team and won two fall tournaments. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We celebrated Halloween and you were the perfect Eleven/Bob Ross 😉. We spent an awesome day in New York City with Kaitlyn and Sarah. It was the perfect Girls' Day of shopping and seeing Beetlejuice on Broadway!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHixHxkpknflzfjM8Z5NpuBmPRsiMC7LOP4lkg6Y5dUNKCIdEr6bNo5GB3yDMYnF9B3rovwyVP4wpIsilnY1tE2BVXIjuPSq6C098lj1HYm3g4clGCF0Z3-fImeWdDQ8jOO8kHm8Vg7phE/s3000/IMG_7457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="2250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHixHxkpknflzfjM8Z5NpuBmPRsiMC7LOP4lkg6Y5dUNKCIdEr6bNo5GB3yDMYnF9B3rovwyVP4wpIsilnY1tE2BVXIjuPSq6C098lj1HYm3g4clGCF0Z3-fImeWdDQ8jOO8kHm8Vg7phE/w150-h200/IMG_7457.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7AukGPq8L-VyrbhyYrT3JAUuIm_C6MkkrlbXl2jZvQQQ6hVR1_5n-GrFyttDcr71Tr3plhwbl5Qy3lkMbaqo_1FdXHofw4uFFnmPQd4kwZLguXay9MV5FnN9bqFkSLN4J1np6ynFaKn1P/s4032/IMG_7363.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7AukGPq8L-VyrbhyYrT3JAUuIm_C6MkkrlbXl2jZvQQQ6hVR1_5n-GrFyttDcr71Tr3plhwbl5Qy3lkMbaqo_1FdXHofw4uFFnmPQd4kwZLguXay9MV5FnN9bqFkSLN4J1np6ynFaKn1P/w150-h200/IMG_7363.HEIC" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We spent the holidays with family. We baked cookies, decorated the Christmas tree and volunteered at Christmas Eve Mass. We took an amazing trip to Cayman Islands to celebrate New Year's Eve! Your basketball team won the CMRC Championship. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4dbuFKLvn4B0_wQSl2dQ7sx3KxVGwvlsXJOC6dm0DfzCyXrUedKjZFNB20cb072cVg-hVJzyB3YJjn_wlsvy2iL6Jk8LnIMmOaoyRwC0I1ItWjQgJ5DGjClcmKF4fZkMrLY36KABwUA16/w150-h200/IMG_7620.HEIC" width="150" /><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YfphzHPn6g-9ZnzTnMQRZXj6d-thi_fwd0b-Tl8P0jSkIOSm4ntZrb6awN3KAik9MkjwKV8fdynYm1SBM64wuvysx9GGxcdhYni_RqcmyeI8qn0Txwz9W2NSDBnCsiWudvBPRz5LDDpJ/w160-h200/IMG_8401.PNG" style="text-align: left;" width="160" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPM-ADpKEdUncmaYnnaRKfQWJEJV-qc5As9iXz9GANZpnIRgma1B6QXBcy4rTsjs0cKY0w5CAG4Y9ARJEOzx-hxhzkhXhJWVciVSxcfDYcxIfzdG9C5mQmJ0QEpRQDF-KJA6FB5Kh0Xe-U/s4032/IMG_8179.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPM-ADpKEdUncmaYnnaRKfQWJEJV-qc5As9iXz9GANZpnIRgma1B6QXBcy4rTsjs0cKY0w5CAG4Y9ARJEOzx-hxhzkhXhJWVciVSxcfDYcxIfzdG9C5mQmJ0QEpRQDF-KJA6FB5Kh0Xe-U/w150-h200/IMG_8179.HEIC" width="150" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xo2q9io1fqvBGUdanybTrHKDWoDJEik5drJZS26Ut10NVA0nNNcOhbFlHjAH9nSMTi-Ig4-vKDF0Xjbc2PBjM69BZgpxTem6sPe5fc7UZ_tX2rtnoqh8PouCOCT70vKTxFe1mMbGeeiG/s4032/IMG_9500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: verdana; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xo2q9io1fqvBGUdanybTrHKDWoDJEik5drJZS26Ut10NVA0nNNcOhbFlHjAH9nSMTi-Ig4-vKDF0Xjbc2PBjM69BZgpxTem6sPe5fc7UZ_tX2rtnoqh8PouCOCT70vKTxFe1mMbGeeiG/w150-h200/IMG_9500.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: verdana;">Then, one hundred and seventy-two days ago, schools closed and we were told to stay home and social distance from family. Dance classes and sports were canceled, school was moved online, trips were postponed. But somehow you managed to deal with the disappointments with grace and optimism. You performed dances in the basement and you participated fully in your Zoom classes. Your long awaited class camping trip to Echo Hill was virtual, but that didn't stop you from pitching a tent in the backyard and listening to Ms. Sadler read you a story each evening. Your fable was chosen to be a part of the fifth grade play that was narrated and presented as a slideshow, but you were just as proud of your work as if it had been performed on the stage. You celebrated your friends with birthday parades and stood in Grandma’s yard to wish Stella a Happy Birthday! You completed challenges and races for your lacrosse team. You welcomed our new puppy, Frankie, into our family. You humored me by working on puzzles and watching cheesy TV shows and 80's movies. You incorporated your love of baking into science class when you made a cell model out of a cake! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">.</span><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp9y-gH0lUixEdticJaZa1qshSq5wquQsm4HwPh5cgeofr3lpLDoDACQYoAYGbdTOyPF3xCkZWvS-cBXR64ViG1gDxMGM3ojypz0nEUHoI3_GUpsnGOBdcrpvvlRBJz_8eEd0qqNE_7l4/w150-h200/IMG_0426.HEIC" width="150" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVHg-vl52QlNtpdhAe8Cg-Pjmsw-n0TfmkEzj5VdrFn5dXpJnj70NdpfVUqPGBqSJvGVTwsSyDseDBtawGSySROvC_EeN140ixMkiyldunGquOlMqwD5EqPytNLAKKP2Ab-n5_Vpo1MlC/s800/IMG_9545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVHg-vl52QlNtpdhAe8Cg-Pjmsw-n0TfmkEzj5VdrFn5dXpJnj70NdpfVUqPGBqSJvGVTwsSyDseDBtawGSySROvC_EeN140ixMkiyldunGquOlMqwD5EqPytNLAKKP2Ab-n5_Vpo1MlC/w150-h200/IMG_9545.JPG" width="150" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1578" data-original-width="1661" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsryQ-4WJZLjmwVQ0KTJzd4_cPvLTv3EnQVRdzHgL127c8zCyZUahFDskiwy5kiWcXHosTAGm_8fF2bOA01WsspLvTUsC2oQBrGH-0W_v9HZZWAOeouPmQvJYiCDaey5buPT9cWeOvO0O6/w200-h190/IMG_9945.JPG" width="200" /></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYa_W02PpPwMC8XiCvOfeWoGxJvyTgdsx_lrE6cRTqH3hUssalZ0h1dpasCcyoGFyeLWbTk6CtSAuGy5ZgMngeGlgb9y1Z_lATZ2LSVtPe6lXk5No5-oS8URsI8NbRDbNOUkVVFseLL1qD/s4032/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYa_W02PpPwMC8XiCvOfeWoGxJvyTgdsx_lrE6cRTqH3hUssalZ0h1dpasCcyoGFyeLWbTk6CtSAuGy5ZgMngeGlgb9y1Z_lATZ2LSVtPe6lXk5No5-oS8URsI8NbRDbNOUkVVFseLL1qD/w150-h200/IMG_0562.JPG" width="150" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />In June, you graduated from Lower School (virtually, of course) and although things were far from normal, we had an awesome summer. You played lacrosse and swam for the Summer Hill Stingrays. We spent many weeks at the beach. We enjoyed sunny days breathing in the ocean air and feeling the sa</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">nd in our toes. We kept our circle of beach chairs six feet apart from othe</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">rs and wore</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> masks when shopping at our favorite surf shops. We had fireworks and a fire pit on the beach. And yesterday, we ended the summer as we always do, with a family brunch on the patio to celebrate YOU! It may not have been the huge party of years' past, but it was a wonderful day! Today, you were able to go to school for Middle School Orientation. And although, you start Middle School online tomorrow, I know you will make the best of the situation until you can be on campus again. I can always count on you to be the sunshine even on stormy days! </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I love you. You will forever be my best girl.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Mom</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JeB7KgmvKIQiAqKYIItciBVykulTvXgJBqZGxjoVun5fcuyVTj-0uwKG3M2d4cCNt9nbfwiVJHlcsn8RmCAHpRsx4iPBTmmWY9Kb2dNt-e9tEeMkJwtlPjnFqlGzvk6vId3p08OkHDIw/w150-h200/E8A4D7D8-0F1B-40D3-9B24-F3C14D100443_1_201_a.jpeg" style="text-align: left;" width="150" />. <img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQzDfnKLIpWO-xbpekdSCx-jJJbGEpY3kFMZjkTZycIaN2jZSEdqAoT4V9AaukBT3zXbGfA56p-9CronDPMtXtX2nA0v3VVou2WI2ABizbDzYIl5erMbrcQ12ML59GjbF-QEZkQYVd9nXs/w320-h240/46D0059A-01AA-4C1A-BCE3-BF7489324523.heic" width="320" /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0WXm5uvljYqgEV_DjxBXg5zMYQ-1ZkelFqhIWsRAjOlM8SAjWM1pS0l_qDrFQKOCCH8NxDiCC1oQ21duZuEiy8xUmInngwMkj7lhG26VcyLe5hemEYcjbIAiYkAz8GYefR1_bfQHKOCPv/w150-h200/1774D931-EBC7-4A56-AFCD-6410BF25AFBC.heic" width="150" /></div><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-26145894553684449942020-01-13T09:03:00.001-05:002020-01-13T09:03:30.228-05:00<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span class="s2">Zachary, </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Happy 8th birthday!!</span></div>
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<span class="s2"> 8 years. 2,920 days. I can’t believe you have been my baby boy for this long. Sometimes I forget and still think of you as my baby or my toddler or my five-year old. I think it is because you are so attached to me. I know the time is coming when I won’t be the center of your universe. I have lived this first hand with your brother. It will break my heart a little, just like it did with Alex. So I will savor this time. I know in a few short years I will be wishing for the time when you always wanted to hold my hand or wanted me to rub your back to help you sleep. These moments are so special to me, because you are my baby. I know I will never have this time with you again. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">You have tried some new things this year. You gave a memorized speech as George W. Bush in school. We went to Disney World, and you rode all the big roller coasters. In Colorado, you loved to rock climb. You hiked and rode a bike for ten miles. You stood on snow in July! <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You snorkeled with Daddy in Turks and Caymans. You played flag football this fall and went to two Ravens games. You still play basketball and lacrosse. And you love to swim in school and in the summer at the pool and the beach. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">You continue challenge me everyday. If nothing else, at least you are consistent. You are stubborn and sometimes you have selective hearing. But you have a big heart and show a lot of empathy towards others. You have made a bunch of new friends, and you and Grayson continue to be best buds.</span></div>
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My wish for you this year is for you to realize just how amazing you are! Have confidence. Work hard. Be brave. Be kind. Try to be a little more patient with yourself and others. And as always and forever, I will love you. I am your mom. Your person. And I will continue to be as long as you need me. And even longer than that. </div>
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I love you, Mommy</div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-91205657758922714532019-12-10T21:13:00.000-05:002019-12-10T21:13:18.468-05:00<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3px;">
<span class="s1" style="font-weight: bold;">Happy 14th Birthday</span></div>
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<span class="s2">Dear Alex, </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Today you turn 14. You are halfway through your last year of middle school. This has been a year of change for both of us. You are growing taller and your braces came off this fall. You want more independence, and as your mom I am trying to navigate the waters of raising a teenager. This is all new to both of us, and for the first time since you were a toddler I find myself in a power struggle with you. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You want to do what you want to do, and I’m just not ready to give up guiding you whether you want it or not. I know (because I am your mother) that although you are moving towards independence, you still need me. And I am trying my best to find that delicate <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>balance of giving you space while at the same time giving you the guidance you need to continue to grow into the man we both know you can and will become. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">And although these changes are hard sometimes, I know you have a good head on your shoulders and a wise brain in your head. You have a strong moral compass that will keep your headed in the right direction. You have made some mistakes and will make some more. And I know there are going to be times that you have to learn your lessons the hard way. It’s going to be difficult for me to stand back and watch you fall down. I have to trust we have taught you well, and believe that you will stand back up, brush yourself off, and continue to move forward with your head held high. I hope that even though you are seeking independence right now, you know that I am right here when you need me. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">More than anything, I love the times when you talk to me about things going on in your life. Sometimes you tell me about a struggle you are having, and other times you tell me about the funny antics of your friends. You don’t always want my advice. Sometimes you just want me to hear you. I do. And I will always be here to listen, to be your sounding board. Your rock. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">You make us proud everyday. You continue to be a team player on the field, the course, the court and the classroom. Your teachers say you are insightful, bright, and a deep thinker. Your cross country coach says you are a leader who always has a positive attitude. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Fourteen years ago today, you made me a mom. You are the first of my three greatest blessings. Year after year you prove to be a loyal and wonderful son, brother, cousin, grandson, nephew and friend. Our family is lucky to call you our Alexander, our Alley Cat, our Alexis. I thank God everyday that your middle school days are <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>happy ones thanks to your friends who appreciate your sense of humor and your trueness. They are lucky to have you as a friend! But I am the most blessed of all, because I am the one you call “Mom.” </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Happy, happy birthday!!! </span></div>
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<span class="s2">I love you so much,</span></div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-64331507654578052562019-09-03T21:50:00.000-04:002019-09-03T21:50:10.001-04:00HAPPY 11th to IZZY!!<span style="color: #454545; font-family: "uictfonttextstylebody"; font-size: 17px;">Dear Izzy, </span><br />
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Happy 11th birthday! As always, we had so much fun over the weekend celebrating YOU! You had a Mystery Party sleepover with your besties. You are so very blessed with the sweetest friends. On Sunday, we had family brunch with all your favorite foods - Trader Joe cinnamon buns, chocolate chip croissants, and red velvet cupcakes. It was a beautiful day just for you, my beautiful girl. Your birthday is always the best way to end summer. </div>
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Speaking of summer, we had a busy one!! We started the summer in Disney World. We traveled to Colorado for the first time where we kayaked, hiked and biked! And we spent most of the summer at the beach-swimming, shopping and spending time with our family. One of my most favorite memories of the summer was the day you and I watched the sun rise over the ocean.<br />
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And as the fall begins, you are experiencing so many changes in your life. The biggest change is starting a new school. You are now a Bryn Mawr Girl. <br />
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You are going to be so successful at Bryn Mawr. I know it is a little scary and different right now, but you, my girl, are the whole package! You are smart, athletic, conscientious, creative and kind! As I have always told you since you were a tiny girl- you can do it!!!! Anything! Everything! Even learn French (Inside Joke 😜). So go into this new school year with confidence and pride. You were born to be a leader. </div>
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I’m not saying it will always be easy, but remember one thing, when things get tough and you need help, guidance or a reminder of how awesome you are, I am here for you! I am your safe place, your rock. I will always be right here if you need me. </div>
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“Don’t change so people will like you. Be yourself and the right people will love you!” I read this quote and it reminded me of you. Don’t ever change, because you radiate kindness and goodness and love. People are drawn to your sense of humor and compassion for others. You have sweet friends because you are sweet and those are the type of people you attract. Your family adores you because of your loyalty and huge heart. This world needs more people like you! </div>
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I am so excited to see all the wonderful adventures this year has in store for you!!! </div>
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Love you - you will always be my best girl. </div>
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" />princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-59442937551969362262019-01-13T20:08:00.000-05:002019-01-13T20:08:24.099-05:00Happy 7th Birthday!<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Dear Zachary, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">My baby. You are seven years old today. A first grader. A basketball player. A lacrosse shooter. A fast swimmer. A book reader. A story writer. A picture drawer. A movie watcher. A noise maker. A button pusher. A sweet cuddler. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You make life fun. You love to laugh, especially at your own jokes. You love to play video games with Alex and Grayson. You love to wrestle with daddy. You love to FaceTime with Stella. You love to create art projects with Izzy. You love to go on walks with me and Millie. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You started at a new school this year. You love Gilman. You hop out of the car every morning with a smile and a “bye mom.” You are learning so much and making new friends. You love the weeks when your class gets to swim in gym class. You are learning Spanish and right now you are writing a story about animal habitats. You are a rule follower at school. At home, not so much!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Having you in carpool has been quite an adjustment for Alex and me. You talk constantly. Well, more like just hum, sing and make noise. In the afternoon, while we wait for Alex you eat snack and after snack. You are always so hungry after a long day of school. In the evenings, you do homework. You have the neatest handwriting of all of my kids (thank you, Gilman). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You are the most stubborn child I have ever met. You take strong-willed to a whole other level. You say words that kids your age shouldn’t say. And I have to threaten to tell your teacher to get you to stop. You seriously never listen to a word we say. Well, that might be a slight exaggeration, but you are definitely not an easy kid. But you definitely are a great kid with a big heart. You always say, “Sometimes I am bad on the outside, but you know I have a good heart on the inside!” I believe this. I see this. You are fiercely loyal. You are protective of your little cousins. You have no fear, except when it comes to going to bed at night. You still want me to lay with you until you fall asleep. You aren’t a big kid, but you have a big personality. You are a bit of a clown. You love to be the center of attention. You are a bit of a celebrity with Alex and Izzy’s friends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You, my baby boy, challenge me like I have never been challenged before. But you are a Momma’s boy through and through. I will never forget the first time I saw you! You stole a piece of my heart. You are never going to give it back. You can have it. I love you so much inside and out... all of you. Always and forever. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Mommy </span></div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-40856672809866172032018-12-10T13:45:00.000-05:002018-12-10T13:45:15.318-05:00<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;"> My Dear Alex, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Happy 13th birthday, Alex. I cannot believe I am the mom of a teenager. You continue to make me proud every day. You are a diligent student, a loyal friend, and an empathetic and loving son and brother. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You continue to amaze me with your successes in school. You work hard each and every day and it shows in your grades. I love that you come home excited about what you are learning. You are also a talented artist. Your art projects are on display in the Middle School. This fall you joined the Cross Country team. I loved cheering you on and watching your confidence grow with each race as you beat your PR over and over again. I see great things in your future as a Gilman Greyhound both in the classroom and on the race course. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You are such a great kid. You have a kind heart and you always put your family first. You have many friends, but your cousins are your best friends. You still enjoy family time, especially our beach days, movie nights, and making s’mores. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You love listening to rap music, watching funny videos on You Tube, playing video games, hanging out with your buddies, shooting hoops, and jumping on the trampoline with Zachary and Izzy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">If I’m being totally honest, I would rewind time if given the chance. I would go back and relive those sleepless nights and baby years all over. I would even go back to the days when you were a toddler who bit kids on the playground. I have enjoyed every day of being your mom. All of my best memories and most important moments of my life are because of you. You made me a mom, and I can never thank you enough for being such a joy. I am so blessed to spend each day watching you grow into a fine young man. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Always know I am here for you as you navigate through these teenage years. Sometimes things will be tough and confusing, but you have a smart brain in your head and the biggest heart in your chest. Use them and trust them. Your moral compass is on point. Don’t let peer pressure sway you from doing what you know is right. And you have Dad and I in your corner, always. We are here for you, no matter what! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">You will always be my #1. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">I love you all the love in the world - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Mom </span></div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-30282933777569727662018-09-09T13:43:00.000-04:002018-09-09T13:48:18.575-04:00Happy 10th Birthday<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">Happy 10th Birthday, Isabella Grace. My sweet, perfect girl. My best girl. I love you so much. Your smile. Your laugh. Your love of life. You make me happy every single day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">I am the luckiest mom in the world. I can honestly say that there hasn’t been a day that goes by in a whole decade that I don’t thank God for sending you to me. One of my three greatest gifts. My best girl. My only girl. My heart. We have a bond that is special. You may be daddy’s girl, but we have a mommy-daughter love that is so very special. I truly feel as if your heart speaks to mine. It is hard to explain this connection, but I feel it in my every heartbeat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">Your smile and kind nature make me believe in the goodness that I know still exists in this world. It has to exist, because you are the epitome of goodness. I believe you will spend your life leading by example. You will do great things and others will see you and follow your lead. I’m so excited to see what this next decade has in store for you. I feel like in some ways it will have more changes than the first. And as your mom, I promise to be right here for you. Anything you need, anytime of the day or night, I will be there. You can trust me to be your biggest cheerleader in sports, school and life; your shoulder to cry on when you are sad and your sounding board when you have big decisions in life. And of course your shopping, sushi and pedicure partner, because our girl days are the highlight of my life. </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?rinli=1&pli=1&blogID=2362020145264414151" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">I love you all the love in the world. Remember to always be silly, be honest, be kind. </span></div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-26662533703500368582018-01-15T11:56:00.000-05:002018-01-15T21:56:53.639-05:00Happy 6th Birthday !<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">My six year old. My big kindergartner. My Mr. Independent. My stubborn boy. My sweet baby. You are all these things rolled into one boy. You continue to challenge me and amaze me every single day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">You are a Momma’s Boy, and I love every second you want to snuggle! But you love your dad and there are some things only he can do right- tuck you in, make you s’mores, swim with you, and tie your towel around your waist! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">You are learning to read in school and love when I read to you at night. You pick out the words you know. Your favorite books are joke books! You love learning new jokes and telling them to our family to make them laugh. You can add and subtract and come home everyday with stickers for good behavior or being helpful in class. You love when I volunteer in the classroom and in the cafeteria. It melts my heart to see your face light up when you see me at school. I feel like a celebrity!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">Your personality and your smile can fill a room. No one has a brighter smile or a louder laugh. You make your presence known. You are quite the character. You may be the youngest, but you are the boss and the one who loves to start trouble. You have not outgrown your refusal for compromise. You can’t help yourself. You want what you want. You are as stubborn as can be!! Alex and Izzy usually let you get away with your mischief. They love you so much. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">We had an amazing weekend celebrating your birthday. We had a play date with Grayson, went to the movies, had a family dinner, opened lots of presents, played basketball, and had a swimming party with your friends. Daddy bought you a dirt bike with all the gear and pads to go with it. You are so brave! You got right on and sped away! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">At six years old, you love yogurt, chocolate chip pancakes, pirate booty and Chick-fil-a. You love Spongebob, Imaginex toys, Superheroes and Minecraft. You love playing with your friends and your cousins, walking to Grayson’s house like a big kid, playing hide and seek and Uno, and jumping on the trampoline. You and I spend quite a lot of quality time putting together legos. You play soccer, basketball and lacrosse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">I am still in shock that my baby is six. But I am so excited to see what happens next!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">I love you, my baby. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">Momma</span></div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-68719831799596645122017-12-09T09:08:00.000-05:002017-12-09T09:08:02.848-05:00Happy 12th Birthday!Dear Alex,<br />
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Tomorrow you turn twelve years old. And here we are again...birthday weekend. I love that you love to celebrate your birthday. I tease you that you think your birthday is a National Holiday, but I agree it is a big deal. The biggest deal, because it marks another year that I have been able to live my life doing the most important job in the world, being your mom.<br />
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This past year has been one of the fastest years ever. I feel like we just celebrated your 11th birthday at Hershey Park. Today we will celebrate you again! We are taking you and your friends to the Towson Basketball Game. Old friends, new friends and best friends will be there. And tomorrow we will have family dinner. Friends and family. Your loyalty and love belong to your friends and family. And because of your loyal, funny, and kind nature, everyone in your life counts you as one of their blessings.<br />
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Lots of changes have happened this year. In February, you got your acceptance into three schools, and you chose to go to The Gilman School. You said, <i>"Mom. I just belong there." </i> You immediately went outside and put a "Gilman" magnet on my car. You graduated fifth grade at Jacksonville, earning straight A's and The Sportsmanship Award. You spent the beginning of the summer playing in lacrosse tournaments. We spent the rest of the summer at the beach, our happy place! And then it was time to start school. We went to the school store and bought your supplies, including a book bag with what else but a Gilman patch on it. (A book bag that you left at home on the first day of school, and I had to drive all the way home and back to school with it. BEST.MOM.EVER).<br />
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Let's talk about this drive to and from Gilman and what happens during the hours in between. You and I get up early and drive to school. You are usually quiet on the drive, but I don't mind. We chat a little about your school work and which teacher you need to see when you get there. You eat your breakfast. I drop you off a half hour before school starts. You hop out of the car and say, "<i>Bye, mom. Love you."</i> I watch you as you walk into school usually talking with your friends, and one day I saw you help a boy on crutches who you didn't even know by carrying his book bag. During the day, I can't see what you are doing, but I know you are learning, and talking, and playing. When I pick you up, you get into the car, sometimes after a quick stop in the school store for a snack, with a smile. I always ask, <i>"How was your day?"</i> You say, <i>"Great!"</i> and then you tell me all about the new things you learned, funny things that happened with your new friends, the grades you got on the tests or projects, art and 3D printing clubs, and the sports you played in gym. You are thriving at Gilman. You are being challenged, but you are proving you are up to the challenge. Your teachers say you are a diligent student who stays on task and is kind to others. Your evenings are spent doing homework and playing sports. You are playing lacrosse and basketball. You also go to small group training that works on speed and agility. You are one busy boy! I am so impressed with your maturity and work ethic.<br />
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I could literally write a book about you and how proud I am of the young man you are and continue to become. But I have to wake you up, so you can study for exams before your birthday celebrations begin! But before I end, here are a few other things about you at twelve. You love Chick-Fil-A and eat it several times a week. I tease you that your blood type is now Chick-Fil-A sauce. You like to listen to rap music, but I hear you singing along to my country music in the car. Like most other tweens, your phone is an appendage. You love snapchat, silly group texts with your buddies and youtube. You can give us an attitude and sometimes have a smart mouth, and can be a bit of a know-it-all. I suspect that will just get worse as we transition into the teen years. We will get through it. And lastly, it has happened......You are officially taller than me! <br />
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Happy Birthday to my #1. I love you all the love in the world.<br />
Mom (Momma)<br />
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<br />princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-58782603292026359102017-09-03T08:43:00.002-04:002017-09-04T18:06:22.552-04:00Happy 9th Birthday, Isabella<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7oaJCEUibKJHaTTt4czp3TMGi1fmtMSYqvpuz6IuuIK-czJiIXi2lGCCXNzGzshyuN87GMH9H6lwUtcTGkqUEIhXMURqZFHBk2XHraRVjc-pg2aSNYwoGKdeVxn0uvw82CjhLOolBo33/s1600/19780492_10213612293367419_8124974310849412963_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7oaJCEUibKJHaTTt4czp3TMGi1fmtMSYqvpuz6IuuIK-czJiIXi2lGCCXNzGzshyuN87GMH9H6lwUtcTGkqUEIhXMURqZFHBk2XHraRVjc-pg2aSNYwoGKdeVxn0uvw82CjhLOolBo33/s200/19780492_10213612293367419_8124974310849412963_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: magenta;">Beach time with the family</span></td></tr>
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Dear Izzy,<br />
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Another year has gone by in a blink of an eye. You are starting 3rd grade next week after an amazing summer of family time at the beach. We spent our days riding on the boat, building castles in the sand, and playing in the waves. Grandma has nicknamed you 'Mermaid' because your favorite place to be is in the ocean. <br />
<br />
I went back and read your letter from last year, and I feel like I could write the exact same words once again. I say it all the time, from the minute you came into this world you have been inherently you. I may be a little biased but I think you were born as close to perfect as a person can possibly be. You are a ray of sunshine every single day. But as you grow and gain knowledge and experiences, you just continue to glow brighter and brighter with each passing year. Your smile, your crazy laugh, your love for life, your patience and kindness towards your brothers, your loyalty to your friends and family, truly makes you the heart of our family. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: magenta;">My Beach Babe</span></td></tr>
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Your positive attitude and ability to find joy in the simplest things are going to take you far in this world. You are so well-rounded, sporty and girly, serious and silly, tough and sweet. You are athletic and a leader on your teams. You love to play soccer, basketball, and lacrosse. You love to swim and dance. You are Daddy's best helper in the yard. You are my shopping buddy, and you love to cuddle and read with me at night. You are the best sister in the world. You play with Zachary for hours, keeping him entertained with your amazing imagination. You shoot hoops and jump on the trampoline with Alex. He has even been heard saying that you are a <i>cool little sister</i>! You are a sweet and fair friend. You are a good student both in school and in life.<br />
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I know I tell you this often, but I truly thank God for you every day. I don't know what I would do without you. You bring us so much love and joy and laughter (very loud laughter). I know I am the mom, and I try to set a good example for how to live, but even at nine years old, the way you live your life to the fullest each day is an example that everyone should follow. Maybe it is silly to say that I look up to you, but I do. I think everyone should have a little more sunshine in their hearts the way you do.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta;">Happy 9th Birthday</span></span></td></tr>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-8713185829825869082017-06-12T19:32:00.000-04:002017-06-12T19:39:39.496-04:00Fifth Grade Farewell<br />
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Alex,<br />
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Today you said farewell to elementary school. I knew I would cry just as I did the first time you climbed the steps of the bus on the first day of Kindergarten. But this time it was different. I cried tears of joy. Yes. I am a little sad that you are growing up way too quickly. But that sadness is outweighed by my adoration and pride in you. Not only have you had stellar grades for your entire time at Jacksonville, but you are so much more than that. When Mrs. Lee described the characteristics of the recipients of the Sportsmanship Award, I knew your name would be called. You are such a kind, empathetic, and positive kid. You are the epitome of a team player. You always give it your all. And if I have said it once, I have said it a million times, I am so very proud to be your mom.<br />
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You have made so many good friends over the last six years. It has been said more than once that your class is a great group of kids. And although you are going to a different school next year, I know that you all will cross paths at the pool, middle school dances, and parties. You never forget your first friends.<br />
<br />
I'm so excited to see where this next chapter of your life takes you. You may no longer be a Jacksonville Jet, but I know you are going to continue to soar. Gilman made a wise choice when they chose you. Go Gilman Greyhounds!<br />
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I love you, my #1<br />
Momma<br />
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-56865666675678828062017-01-18T15:47:00.001-05:002017-01-18T15:47:41.786-05:00Happy 5th Birthday to my baby!Dear Zachary,<br />
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You are five years old! You are a whole handful literally as well as figuratively. I can't even get my head around it. It feels impossible that it has been five years since we brought you home from the hospital. But I truly can't imagine what our life would be without you. You may take after me in stature, but your personality is gigantic. You definitely think you are older than you are and want to be one of the big kids. I joke and call you my little teenager. You are tough, and you always say what is on your mind. You are not one for compromise, but we are working on that. You have a great sense of humor and just like a typical five year old, many of your jokes involve potty words. <br />
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You are still a Momma's boy. You still like me to lay with you at night. I read books to you, scratch your back and talk to you about your day. If you had a day where you misbehaved and got in trouble you will say to me, <i>I can't wait to wake up and see you smiling at me Mommy. I will be a good boy tomorrow. </i> And if I ever get up and tell you I'll be right back, I better come right back. You will not fall asleep while you are waiting. You are a night owl for sure. You don't go to sleep early, making it tough on your early rising mom! I am pretty sure I fall asleep earlier than you most nights. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">That smile! No one has a smile like you. Mischief and charm all rolled into that one grin. You clearly believe you are in charge. Usually we are scared to argue with you....</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">You tell me, <i>Mommy. You are so beautiful. </i>And you always want to give me <i>just one more hug and kiss,</i> and it absolutely melts my heart... My little ladies' man. </span></div>
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Over this past year, we have taken trips to the beach, Deep Creek Lake, Turks and Caicos (you have already started packing for our next trip there in April), and Disney World. You still love dressing up and spent the whole day in character, Jack "Zach" Sparrow, after being made over as a pirate in the Pirate League. </div>
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This year you are in your last year of preschool three days a week. You are lucky to have your buddy Grayson in your class. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, we hang out with Stella, go on adventures with Nana and Grayson, or just stay in our pjs all day. In a few months, I will take you to Kindergarten registration. I joke that I am ready, but I'm not. I am going to miss you so much. I'm going to miss playing legos and doing puzzles, watching movies, going to Wegmans, walking around Hunt Valley with Gabe and Stella, and taking you and Grayson (<i>my grumpy old men</i>) to Kiddie Crusoe, Chick-Fil-A, Five Below and Five Guys. I'm even going to miss arguing with you about what we each consider too much time on the Ipad. But I think Kindergarten is going to be good for you. I think in many ways you are ready. And although you are not one to sit for long amounts of time, you are a quick learner and have a bright mind. You will do well, I believe in you.</div>
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Everyday you challenge me, drive me a little crazy, and make me laugh. I hope you always see me as beautiful, because I know when you look in my eyes and say I'm beautiful you aren't talking about my physical appearance. You see the love in my eyes, and that is what makes me beautiful to you. There is nothing in the world more beautiful than the love a mom has for their child. It is all encompassing and forever. I will always love you. You will always be my baby boy.</div>
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Momma</div>
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princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-998969351690526622016-12-10T07:37:00.000-05:002016-12-10T07:37:37.630-05:00Happy 11th BirthdayDear Alex,<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhaC_HlslvqkMsHm6ZsQXcTJdMj4PTYT9k1r7hyphenhyphengcSOAqJ5rFwIhmZuQzcpNqlJjevaXHm_PCr32irGg7vlNc__P5jayZzijUh-DNMl0yYDLXy8nJWO-zsM1bjGwgMGJ-NtEx3JJtkV02/s1600/13064544_10209498399002631_2000539419242735142_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhaC_HlslvqkMsHm6ZsQXcTJdMj4PTYT9k1r7hyphenhyphengcSOAqJ5rFwIhmZuQzcpNqlJjevaXHm_PCr32irGg7vlNc__P5jayZzijUh-DNMl0yYDLXy8nJWO-zsM1bjGwgMGJ-NtEx3JJtkV02/s320/13064544_10209498399002631_2000539419242735142_o.jpg" width="256" /></a>Today you are 11 years old. I woke you up at 6 am for lacrosse practice with a kiss and a bunch of balloons. You opened your eyes and said, "Mom." The most beautiful word in all the world. I laid down next to you for just a moment and put my arms around you. And I couldn't help it, the tears came. Because I remember another December morning, before the sunrise, eleven years ago when I held you in my arms. It was just you and me in those moments before dawn, just as it was on the day you were born. <br />
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I know I tell you all the time, but I love you so much. I am so proud of you. You continue to excel in school. I can't believe you are in fifth grade. You have such a nice group of kids in your grade and have loved every minute of your experiences at Jacksonville. But change is on the horizon. We have spent the fall applying, visiting, interviewing and shadowing at middle schools. You have handled this process with your usual maturity and incredible insight. And although the future is still unknown until the acceptance letters come in February, you know where you want to be and I am confident that the school wants you too. What school wouldn't want you? You are bright, creative, diligent, friendly, kind and a good friend. I am so excited for you and this next chapter of your life. I know at times it isn't going to be easy, but I will be right here if you need me. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DG1yYU9KRB7g4VWmBzAWB7mZ9f7CdwINv72ybsn-ky0dW0xOSl6lWcS3AeBBE9Glg7nPshc47DqDFSD7woDQOKmmNUZ4dHFISVglKjVkE7Rnuy5QNf3ShbPz_H_-foZLQ55GWZ123-gA/s1600/14257585_10210584132625293_1670290500606541048_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DG1yYU9KRB7g4VWmBzAWB7mZ9f7CdwINv72ybsn-ky0dW0xOSl6lWcS3AeBBE9Glg7nPshc47DqDFSD7woDQOKmmNUZ4dHFISVglKjVkE7Rnuy5QNf3ShbPz_H_-foZLQ55GWZ123-gA/s320/14257585_10210584132625293_1670290500606541048_o.jpg" width="256" /></a>You continue to try new things like computer game programming, yearbook club, and robotics club. This year you played soccer, basketball, tennis, lacrosse, swam on swim team, and ran cross country. I love watching you play sports, always a team player, helping a teammate up when he falls and giving a pat on the back when a goal is scored. But it was running cross country, where I saw you shine. The Mighty Milers allowed you to find your stride, literally. And I was so happy to be on the journey with you. I was able to run some trail runs and 5K's along side of you. Well, that is how the season started. By the end of the season, I was following behind you. Watching you run with a new-found confidence that made me so happy. And we both got a little teary that day when your name was announced as first place in your age group after a 5K. I hope my body allows me to keep running with (behind) you, because, Baby Boy, there is no better feeling in the world then getting to watch your child's success and confidence grow literally with each step.<br />
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You know I could go on and on. I am your biggest fan. You are my perfect boy. And nothing makes me happier than when you give me a hug and say to me, <i>"I love my momma." </i>When you put your arms around it reminds me that even though you are no longer a little baby, (one more inch and you will be as tall as me), those four words are spoken so naturally and with such sincerity and love that I know a part of you will always belong to me. Because you are all the best parts of me.<br />
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I love you,<br />
Momma<br />
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<br />princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362020145264414151.post-17348833421994062482016-08-31T17:25:00.000-04:002016-08-31T17:25:09.290-04:00Happy 8th Birthday IsabellaDear Isabella,<br />
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According to the calendar, tomorrow is your eighth birthday. How can this possibly be? Just one minute ago you were my little bald baby who loved to wear tutus and play dress up. Now you love to dress in "<i>workout clothes</i>." You say it is because that is what I wear. I call you my "<i>Sporty Spice</i>" and am having a hard time seeing all those dresses hanging in your closet all but forgotten, except for special occasions. This is the first year you haven't picked out a special dress for your party. This year's theme is soccer and you have your new Under Armour outfit that daddy bought you all ready to go! Your shirt says, "<i>All Heart" </i>and that is the perfect description of you! You have a heart of gold, my sweet girl.<br />
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And although some things have changed over the past year, you are still you. You are confident and sweet with a little sass on the side. Your smile and laugh are contagious. You have a wonderful imagination. You are such an amazing and loving daughter and sister. Daddy and I count our blessings every single day. Zachary worships the ground you walk on and Alex looks to you to make sure you think he is cool. You love your cousins and grandparents, aunts and uncles so much. This fall you are going to be a flower girl in your Uncle Dave and Aunt Lauren's wedding. You and Stella are going to steal the show. Stella, I have to mention the amazing bond you share with your cousin Stella. Stella is the little sister you have always wanted. She follows you around and you are so patient and loving towards her. <br />
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You are a second grader. You play travel soccer. You can read chapter books. You are an amazing swimmer. You love lacrosse, basketball and dance and are learning how to play tennis and golf. You are an talented writer and artist. You love the beach and boating, and Turks and Caicos is your favorite place. You love to wear flip flops, eat mini muffins, jump on the trampoline. Fusion is your favorite restaurant. You love chocolate, but are not a big fan of gummies, ice cream or cake. Giraffes are still your favorite animals, and you continue to insist that one day you will own one as a pet. And although you are growing up, you still love to collect stuffed animals, and you sleep with music playing and cuddling your Gigi every night. <br />
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You are a diligent student and always try your best in school. All of your life people have wanted to be near you. Your smile and hugs can make even the worst day bright again. You have so many friends because you are kind, compassionate and fair. At any given moment you and Kaitlyn and Sadie can be found at our house in the middle of a never-ending playdate. You work together to create zoos for your stuffed animals and build elaborate lego creations. Or sometimes you just giggle and chat for hours!<br />
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We have had such a fun year. We spent many winter days snowed in, sledding, watching movies and eating s'mores. We went to Turks and Caicos, took many trips to the beach, spent a weekend in Deep Creek with the Deys, went hiking at Mount Saint Mary's, and spent lazy days this summer at the pool. But even on lazy days, you make life fun. Your love for life is contagious. I know that you never lose this zeal and positivity and will always be the sunshine of our lives!<br />
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<br />princealexsmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14142530906426774117noreply@blogger.com1