Dear Derrick,

It's been quite awhile since I wrote to you.  Let's see... you are 20.  You still live at home with me. You are working at 72 down the street, just transferred a few weeks ago from 96.  You still volunteer on Fridays at the Fire Dept while going to college for your fire science degree.

I am dating Stephen.  We have been together for almost 2 years.  Josh and I broke up, but had 8 good years together.  You and he are still close.

I'm getting old kiddo.  Your mom is 41 now.  It doesn't feel like it.  I feel like I am maybe 30.

So last night I taught you how to make meatballs.  Remember that?  They were the best meatballs we ever had!  Remember to always add the ground beef last so it doesn't make the meatballs all mushy. The less you have to mix it, the better it will taste.

You  are over at your girlfriend's house.  Her name is Allison.  She seems like a sweet girl.  You don't bring her by much.  Not sure why.  You spend more time at her house then our house.  I get it though. Your are a young man.  Just wish I could see you more.

Well, your old mom has to get to bed soon.  Looks like I am pulling another 12 hour shift tomorrow.

Love you.
Mom

Dear Derrick,

It's hard to believe you are going to be 20 years old next week.  Seriously, where has the time gone?  I think back to my parents being this age when I was 20.  It doesn't paint a very good picture.  I am thankful everyday you are so much better than me.  You have your head on straight, not easily influenced by others.  I am glad I was strict, but loving during your youth.  I love hearing people tell me how you are such a good young man.  It's these moments I love.

You are in your second semester at Butler and it's starting to kick your ass.  Lol.....  You are taking trig and I believe you are a bit stressed over it.  I am hoping you will find a way and if not, get out of the class quickly.  You are doing well in English and Sociology.

I am at Stephen's house right now.  Sometimes I wonder if I am making the right decision.  You would think after being alive 40 years, I would have more answers.  Just remember we are all creatures of habit.  It takes something monumental to really make us change.  I love him very much.  He's so different from any of my previous relationships.  He's very set in his ways and stubborn.  Stephen doesn't like to be told when and where unless it's his idea.  Hehehehe...  he's learned to adjust that with me.

Parkouring is going well for you, even tho you come home with scrapes and bruises everywhere.  I cringe every time I see a fresh wound from your flips or jumps.  I guess you've always been a thrill seeker.

Alright kiddo.  I better end this post.  I love you so much and I am always proud of you.

Love you,
Mom

Dear Derrick,

I'm not sure why I don't post more often.  Time has a way of slipping past.  It's January of 2015, one month before your 20th birthday.  You love to parkour, hang out with your friends, work at the Big D and are full of life.  No serious girlfriend yet, but I have a feeling you will be a late bloomer like your uncle.

We've had a pretty good life so far.  We do quite well for ourselves.  I am proud of the young man you have become.  I like to think I had a part in that.

I will make sure not to wait so long until the next entry.

I love you so much.

Love you,
Mom