Dear Derrick,

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

I Love You!!!

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

You are at home sick from school today. I imagine you have the crud that is going around. I had it last week and that is where you probably were in contact with this weird illness. First, the headache, second, the coughing and probable throwing up. Right now, you are in that "I want to lay down" stage.

We had parent/teacher conferences yesterday. You have been doing better with school, however, you are behind in a couple of classes. Socially, you still could be getting along better. I can understand how hard it is to fit into school. There are so many mouthy kids and sometimes they will say things that will hurt your feelings. You just have to make sure you don't turn into one of those mouthy kids yourself.

Well, I just wanted to give a little update. I don't post as much as I would like, but I do try as much as I can.

Love you,

Mom

Dear Derrick,

Hey there kiddo. You just had a birthday. 13 years old. Wow, I can't believe it! Where have all of the years gone?

You have certainly changed overnight. You are so tall, and oh so very quiet. You don't talk as much as you used to, but I guess it's normal. At least that is what my friends are telling me. We went to Outback Steakhouse for your birthday dinner and the service was horrible. Do you remember that? I didn't even finish my meal. Then we went to Cold Stone Creamery and you got some ice cream.

We have parent/teacher conferences coming up next week. I am sure you are doing well. I talked to one of your teachers today and she says she enjoys having you in class very much. That's good!

I am so proud of you sweetie. You are growing up so fast. I hope not too fast. Well, I better get to bed and get some rest for this cold I have.

Love you,
Mom