Dear Derrick,

Well, your first year of high school is having its ups and downs. There are some kids picking on you and bullying you around. I know it is so hard to ignore and teenagers can be so cruel. But I can tell you in 4 more years, it's not going to matter. Those bullies and mean kids are not going to matter at all.

There is so much more to life than high school. I know it doesn't seem like it now because it's your life, your time in the moment. But listen to me when I say, it all won't matter in a few years. What will matter is how you learn to handle yourself. What will matter is your character, not your reputation.

One of my favorite quotes of all time is by John Wooden. It is, 'Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.'

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

Well, your cousin has just turned 18. I miss her so much. I wish that your aunt and I did not have a falling out. It hurts inside knowing how much I have missed out of their lives, how much I have missed being in their lives with you.

Do you remember the Christmases we used to have? We would stay the night on Christmas Eve and I would wake up early and make you, A and A pancakes and bacon for breakfast. We would get up early and cook Christmas dinner. After breakfast, we would open up presents. It was so much fun.

Now A has turned 18. I have missed out on over 4 years of her life. She will be graduating this year. I am so glad you are in the same school as she. It's nice to know someone is there looking after you, just in case. I know you don't need it, but I feel better knowing she is there.

Hopefully one day I can be a part of her life again. Maybe we can all be together again. I know one day she will contact me. It won't ever be the same, but I can't wait for that day.

Days like today are full of memories. I am so happy that you and I are making good memories.

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

You start your first day of high school tomorrow. And though I know you will be a little nervous, you are going to do great. Always remember to respect your teachers and other students. It's easy to get lost in the wrong crowd, but I know that you will make good decisions. You will have your ups and downs at school, but always remember the good in people and things.

You are growing up so quickly. I remember when you were small enough to only hold one finger on my hand while we walked. Now you are growing up to be such a good young man. I am so proud of you sweetheart.

I love you so much. I am lucky to have such a wonderful son like you.

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

It's Father's Day. However, you are spending most of the day with me. Your dad has not called about any plans yet today. Not sure if he is going to.

You have been pretty busy this summer, attending camp and making new friends. I have been busy also, with work and more work. Sometimes I wonder if it is all worth it. You are growing up so fast. You will be starting high school in two months. Weird. I remember the day you started kindergarten and then on to junior high school. Now you are off to high school and before I know it, you will be off to college.

You are such a great kid. Remember to always be respectful. Never make a girl cry if you absolutely can help it. When you get married and have children of your own one day, spend as much time with them as you can. Having a father in a child's life is so important. There are so many things a dad can teach a child. One last thing, don't be afraid to tell someone how you feel or how much you love them.

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

Well, you did it! You graduated 8th grade! High school starts next year. Where did all of the time go?

I am so proud of you! You have grown into such a wonderful young man the past three years. You have matured and grown up so much. I know you had to deal with what has been going on between your dad and I. I am sorry if you were hurt through any part of it.

Just remember how much we love you, even though we are not together. You are the reason all things are possible in my life.

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

Today is Mother's Day. Without you, nothing could be possible. You have made my dreams come true. Everything I do is for you.

I am so proud of you sweetheart. You are 14 years old and such a handsome young man. You are such a good kid for me and I love you very much.

Life will continue to be tough and challenge you. Always remember the good in people.

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

Well, your dad and I have been seeing a case worker for a couple of months now. He is going to start helping out financially. This will help out. I worry about your dad though. Even though we are not together, I still care about his well-being. I worry that one day he won't be able to work and won't have any money to live on. I shouldn't tell you my worries. Parents are suppose to be invincible, but as you can see, we have our worries.

School is going well. Braces are coming off soon. You will be in high school next year. I am really proud of you sweetheart. You are the best kid a mom could ever hope for.

Love you,

Mom