We are the Reeds

Dear Caleb,

I am so blessed to call you my son.  You are so full of life, I could hardly keep up with you.  It seems like there is nothing that you can't do, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for you.  When others comment how nice and respectful my son Caleb is, I know that you are shining your light.  That is such a gift and I pray that you will continue to shine your light in this dim world. 

With your outgoing personality you have the chance to make a difference in this world, no matter what you decide to do when you grow up.   I can imagine you being the next Tony Hawk, or participating in the Olympics, or leading up a new ministry, or getting married and becoming a wonderful Dad to lots and lots of kids.  All I know is, the sky is the limit, as long as you do what ever it is you want to do with God in your heart. 

But for now, continue having fun, learning about God, getting good grades, and trying your best in whatever you do.  You have so many talents and are so well rounded, that I can't imagine anything less for you.  Don't let you asthma bring you down, and don't lose faith when something new brings you challenge.  Consider these things yet another gift that when you learn how to conquer them, your light will be that much brighter!

I love you so much!

Mom

Dear Sveta,

I am writing this letter to you because it has been such a good day for you and I want you to know how fantastic I think you are.  It is coming up to the one year mark since you first became our daughter.  Life has been sort of like a roller coaster for the both of us with many ups and downs, but I can honestly say that we are at the top of the world's highest coaster looking down.

For the first time, I really think you can grasp the concept of just how much I love you.  I have only your best interests in mind, and I will always be your loudest cheerleader.  I will always be quick to forgive, and I am a huge fan of second chances.  I have no question that you love me, as I see how hard you try to show me.  Not even the small things go unoticed as every smile you make warms my heart.   I enjoy our hair-brushing time and when you help me cook.  You are my "In and Out" hamburger eating buddy, and for that I am very thankful. 

Though this past week has probably been our most trying, if not for those difficult moments we would not have had today.  I counted at least half a dozen kisses that I wouldn't trade the world for and I look forward to more days like today.

I love you very much, and my dream for you , my dear Sveta, is for you to someday be able to read this letter.

Hugs and Kisses,

Mama

Dear William,

You are especially on my heart right now as I spend extra time taking care of you while you are sick.  Please get well soon!  I know it doesn't feel good when your eyes  hurt and your nose is raw from being wiped so much.  Thanks for trying to stay chipper!  You are my sweet little boy.  I love you so much.  You are growing up into such a big boy - before I know it you will be as tall as me.  Remember to practice your piano, and don't forget to say the notes.  I know you are going to surprise your teacher with how well you can play "Spinning Around" now.  Keep up the good job at school as you continue to get 5's!  School will be out before you know it and Grandpa's pool will be built.  Lot's of swimming this summer!!!!  Thanks for being you and always trying your best!

Love,

Your Mom

P.S.  God smiles every time you think of Him.  He will always give you strength to do what is right!

To my loving husband John,

Just having this moment to sit down, relax, and have some time to myself is a testimony to what a wonderful, loving husband and father you are.  I know all the times that you take all of the kids to the movies, church, park, etc. seem to go unnoticed by me, but in reality it makes me realize more and more how blessed I am to have you.  I feel like the luckiest woman alive because I am married to you!

Thank you for being so supportive and encouraging.  I have yet to take your lead and treat you like the king that you are.  I say that because I truly feel like I am your queen.  The fact that you always hold me in such high regard makes me realize how important my job as a mother and wife really are.  Constantly giving praise and compliments really does encourage me even though I may act like I quickly shrug them off and pay little mind too.   I appreciate every little thing you do even though I still manage to find faults with you.  Believe me when I say, that I am struggling more and more each day to find anything really worth complaining about.  Not to say that the complaining will stop, but you might find them more off the wall as I am sure I might just have to make some up.

I think you are a wonderful father and Godly role model for our children.  If it weren't for your time and dedication to this family, I don't  think I could have done this parenting thing on my own.  Being this parenting team has made being a mother the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life.  I think, that  with you by my side all things are possible.  I am so thankful you are always their to spiritually lift our family up to God on a daily basis.    

Though I can go on and on, this isn't a letter filled with compliments to take the place of my showing you how much I love you, but rather a handy reminder for me how much I really love you and how special of a man I have as my husband, and best friend.  I promise to work harder at showing my love and appreciation to you and I will be by your side forever.

I love you,

Christine

Dear Adam,

What an awesome young man you are growing up to be!  I am so proud of you.  I wish for nothing but the best for you and I will always pray for God to keep you on the path that you are currently walking. When I look at you, I see someone who takes the time to do his very best in school.  Not once do I ever remember having to tell you to do your homework and I have never been disappointed by your grades.  I see a young man who is so thoughtful that he makes sure that everyone around him feels important........... like part of the group.  It makes me smile to hear teacher after teacher confirm what I already know...................that you are bright, hardworking, and wonderful in every way.  Though I love all my children equally with a piece of my heart set aside for each,  it is you who I first held and who showed me what a precious gift from God a child really is.  As a mom, I hope you will continue to see the good in people, continue to be sensitive to other's feelings, and deepen your desire to be more like Jesus.  Afterall, you do have His hair.

With Lots of Love,

Mom