My Dearest Ryan.

My Dearest Ryan,

My heart is in my throat right now. Trying really hard not to cry.

I just dropped you off at Kindergarten. It's your first day.

I remember starting kindergarten. I am still best friends with a friend I met in kindergarten.

I remember my mom dropping me off. There was a little girl with overalls on, and very short hair. I remember asking her if she was a boy or girl (I honestly didn't know). Annie Harrington was her name and she also became a good friend of mine. Sheri Seifert became my very best friend in kindergarten. She's still one of mommy's very best friends.

Seeing you lined up with your classmates made you look so grown up. You have your good friend Logan in your class, new friend Caden. Vanessa from your pre-school is in your class, too. It makes me feel happy to know you are surrounded with familiar faces. 

And now I cry. I am not crying because I am sad. I am crying because I love you more than anything in the world. And I thank God every day for giving me you.

I love watching you grow. You are such a bright light in this world. 

I love how quick you are to hug someone. How easily you say, "I love you." How silly and free you are. You are so creative. 

I hope today is a great day. I am literally counting the minutes until I pick you up.

I get to get in my car in 21 minutes and 30 seconds.. 

I hope you build great friendships and have fond memories of today and every day hereafter. 

I am so proud to be your mom. You bring me more joy than I can put into words.

I love you. 

Love, Mommy