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