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by Taylor Jones
Updated: November 16, 2016
Originally Published: November 14, 2016
Dear Kiddo,
Today, you turn 8. Before you hit those teenage years and start rolling your eyes at me, I thought it was time to share just how much you mean to me.
Honestly, before you came along, I wasn’t sure about having kids. I know, not the best intro, but hang tight; it gets better. Becoming a mom wasn’t something I had really considered. Then I met your dad, who, to be fair, I didn’t even think of dating at first. But after he whipped up some pancakes, I realized not every guy: 1) listens, 2) cooks, 3) has a killer smile, and 4) actually likes me. Before I knew it, I was head over heels, and two years later, you arrived.
You are the wonderful blend of your dad and me. I know that may not seem like much, but for us, it means everything. You are sensitive, fiercely loyal, hilarious, compassionate, brilliant, artistic, and yes, adorably chubby. You’re also athletic and determined.
As young parents, we were terrified. How do we fit a baby into our early twenties? How do we do this together? And how could we possibly give you the love and support that we didn’t always receive from our own parents? You might have noticed we stumble sometimes, and that’s not because we don’t love you — it’s because we’re your parents, and honestly, we’re a little messed up.
Like that time your dad said Jesus was more like a zombie than the son of God. I know you were upset with him, and honestly, sometimes I get annoyed with him too. Like that Valentine’s Day when he thought an iTunes gift card was a romantic gift. Or when he leaves just one glass in the sink after I’ve spent an eternity washing dishes by hand.
And remember that Girl Scout trip to New York City? I yelled at you in front of your friends and dragged you around like you were three again. It was chaotic, but I panicked because I couldn’t find you at the Statue of Liberty. I know you still bring it up, which feels like a guilt trip. Ouch!
We are your parents, and we might mess you up.
We will:
- hurt you
- make you cry
- disappoint you
- not give you everything you want
- probably not pay for college
- keep insisting on veggies
- yell sometimes
- turn off the TV
- need you to toughen up
- ask for help when we get old
Your dad and I aren’t financial moguls; we’re dreamers. Our big dreams may not fill our bank account, but we hope you learn that love and money are two different things. Only fools think otherwise.
We’re laying this all out as a kind of “contract” of our shortcomings, so it doesn’t hit you too hard when you’re older and possibly in therapy.
But let me be crystal clear: we are your biggest fans, your loudest cheerleaders, and your unwavering supporters. We’ll listen to anything you have to say, and our love for you is unconditional. We aim to help you navigate life’s unfairness while celebrating your unique journey. You are our child, a testament to our love, commitment, and dreams.
On this, your first day of being 8, our love for you is as strong as it was on your very first day. We’re proud of you, constantly amazed by your strengths, and grateful that you love us back. You’re a rock star to your dad and my little champ. Dream big and live freely — never take anything for granted, stand your ground, and become everything you aspire to be.
We love you,
Mom & Dad
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Summary
This heartfelt letter from a parent to their child expresses the complexities of parenting, acknowledging the challenges and imperfections while emphasizing unconditional love and support. The author reflects on past moments, both humorous and difficult, and encourages their child to embrace life fully.