Dear Landon,

Dear Landon,

Today you started first grade. For some reason this was much harder on mommy then the past few years have been. You went to bed early last night and woke up to a gift from your daddy. I hope one day you will remember that he tried his best to be there for all of your special days, but when he couldn't be there in person, he did his best to let you know he was thinking about you and that he is SO proud of you.

When the rain was falling this morning in what you still say "cats and dogs" you didn't bat an eye! You picked out a new outfit and got your rain gear out of the closet. You are still the easiest kid I've ever met and nothing ever stops you from going on. My hope for you is that you never lose this. Stay strong and move on, even when things don't go the way you expected them to.

You stood in line a little too easy for me today. You don't need me quite as much as you used to. But, while you didn't need to hold my hand, you made sure I waited and waved to you many times before you were led to your new classroom.  I drove home in a slight daze. Walking into the cold house was so different with you not in it. I've really enjoyed our summer together and I wish we had a little more time to enjoy it.

I will end this letter by telling you that I'm so proud of you and the little boy that you have become. I couldn't ask for a more amazing son. You are my world and watching you grow and learn has been the greatest joy I've ever been given. I love you.

Mom

Yesterday I took Little on our last day out of summer. We got breakfast at Friendly's(his FAVORITE place to eat). Then we went over to Mystic Village to his favorite toy store and to the pond to feed the ducks. It was one of the most special days we've ever had and I will remember it forever.

First day! It was raining so he had to chose a new outfit....but he looked adorable still! And he always loves a reason to wear his rain gear.

On the night of the first day of school I let Little pick anything he wants to eat. This year he wanted parm chicken and pasta with broccoli! I also let him eat on our "special" plate and made him a crown with all the goals I have for him.....the crown says "I WILL: do my best, be a good friend, always try, work hard and help others".....as a mom, thats all I can ask.