Dear Devon,

Today you turn 18 and it’s hard to believe.  Personally, it feels just like yesterday, you were crawling around in a red onsie and a blue bandana.  Or maybe it was when I gave you Red Bull at 5 years old and then you passed out in a Perkins booth for a late-night dinner.

For a while now, I’ve been trying to write you a letter and tell you how I feel.  Sadly, I’ve been struggling.  Not because I don’t believe you deserve it or that I don’t have anything positive to say.  Just I’m not sure how to say it.

So, I guess I’ll keep it simple.  You’re an amazing person and I’m proud of who you are becoming.  I know you have had your fair share of struggles in life, but you’ve always risen above them.  This is a trait that will take you far in life.

Keep in mind, life is hard and will not perfect.  There are times when things may seem impossible or not worth the effort.  Please don’t let these days rule your life.  There will always better days ahead.  Days in which life seems easy and perfect.  As you find your path in this journey, the good days will outshine and overshadow the bad ones.

The love I and the rest of our family have for you is unconditional… even if you drive us crazy sometimes.  My hope for your life is you get everything you deserve, which in my view is the world!  Don’t be afraid to take chances.  Don’t be afraid to love with the possibility to be hurt.  Don’t be afraid to fall in love again.  Don’t be afraid to stand up for your beliefs.  But most importantly, don’t be afraid to just be you!

Happy Birthday Devon… and remember, you are now an adult which means you get to go big people jail if you screw up (but… I know you won’t because you’re smart with a good head on your shoulders).   Enjoy your birthday to the fullest!

Here are a few snap shots from Devon’s birthday party over the weekend!  My mom did a great job decorating it for him.  

With Much Love,

Nicole