Dear Mason,
You and I went for a 3 mile jog today. We currently live in a small town called Gladeville (outskirts of Mount Juliet, TN). Our street is barely big enough for two cars to pass each other on. We have no street lights. We have cows in the field across from our street and horses a few yards down. Needless to say, we live in the country! On our journey we saw two farmers transporting hay on tractors. One even passed by your stroller. You didn't cry at all (which is shocking since you get easily startled)! We passed by a neighbor burning leaves. It smelled so good! We only saw three cars (all coming home from work), but each one waved to us. One was our neighbor and she even stopped to see how the stroll had been so far and said hello to you. We passed four boys (probably around the age of 14) on 4-wheelers. They had obviously been "muddin'" ... something your dad will gladly show you how to do one day.
My point is that one day, you may decide to live in a big city and/or travel the world. I hope that you do get to experience those things actually. But never forget where you came from. There is something sweet about the simple life us southerners live. Be proud of your heritage. The southern way of life is a beautiful thing and Tennessee is certainly God's country. Here are a list of country songs that I always love to listen too when I am feeling nostalgic. Maybe you'd like to take a listen ...
Back Where I Come From - Kenny Chesney
Fishin' In The Dark - Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Dixieland Delight - Alabama
Wagon Wheel - Old Crow Medicine Show
Red Dirt Road - Brooks & Dunn
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
John 15:13
Dear Mason,
As your mom, I want you to be safe and healthy above all else. I want you to outlive me and your dad by many, many years. No parent should ever lose a child, although sadly ... sometimes it does happen.
Today, I heard some news that left me heart broken. A young soldier (the same age as me, 29) died in Afghanistan serving our country in the United States Army - http://wreg.com/2013/07/30/local-soldier-killed-in-afghanistan/. His name was Stephen New and he was from Memphis, TN and close friends with one of my own childhood friends. As I view photos and read about how they celebrated his life and the memories they shared with him, I am once again reminded at how precious and beautiful life is.
As stated in John 15:13 - "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends".
I have mixed feelings about the possibility of you one day serving our country. On one hand, I don't want you to be in any danger ... ever. On the other hand, I look at men like your Daddy (who served in the United States Coast Guard), your PawPaw (who served in the United States Navy) and young soldiers like Stephen New who selflessly serve in the Army, Marines, Airforce, etc. and honor their county by risking their lives so that we remain "free" and I am completely humbled, proud and grateful.
Be appreciative of your life. Live your life in a way that brings honor to yourself, to your family, to your friends and to God. Whatever you choose, I support you and your decision. But no matter what you choose, always keep soldiers like Stephen in your heart and prayers. Support our military and soldiers who choose to be in it. Be kind to families that have lost a solider or are dealing with an injured or PTS solider. And most of all, be patriotic and grateful that so many lives have been lost so that we as U.S. citizens may live freely. Freedom, my dear Mason, is a gift that not everyone gets to have.
RIP Stephen New and all of our brave, honorable, fallen U.S. soldiers.
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
As your mom, I want you to be safe and healthy above all else. I want you to outlive me and your dad by many, many years. No parent should ever lose a child, although sadly ... sometimes it does happen.
Today, I heard some news that left me heart broken. A young soldier (the same age as me, 29) died in Afghanistan serving our country in the United States Army - http://wreg.com/2013/07/30/local-soldier-killed-in-afghanistan/. His name was Stephen New and he was from Memphis, TN and close friends with one of my own childhood friends. As I view photos and read about how they celebrated his life and the memories they shared with him, I am once again reminded at how precious and beautiful life is.
As stated in John 15:13 - "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends".
I have mixed feelings about the possibility of you one day serving our country. On one hand, I don't want you to be in any danger ... ever. On the other hand, I look at men like your Daddy (who served in the United States Coast Guard), your PawPaw (who served in the United States Navy) and young soldiers like Stephen New who selflessly serve in the Army, Marines, Airforce, etc. and honor their county by risking their lives so that we remain "free" and I am completely humbled, proud and grateful.
Be appreciative of your life. Live your life in a way that brings honor to yourself, to your family, to your friends and to God. Whatever you choose, I support you and your decision. But no matter what you choose, always keep soldiers like Stephen in your heart and prayers. Support our military and soldiers who choose to be in it. Be kind to families that have lost a solider or are dealing with an injured or PTS solider. And most of all, be patriotic and grateful that so many lives have been lost so that we as U.S. citizens may live freely. Freedom, my dear Mason, is a gift that not everyone gets to have.
RIP Stephen New and all of our brave, honorable, fallen U.S. soldiers.
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
Be a Gentleman
Dear Mason,
You are 6 months old and weigh 20 pounds (you are so very chubby). Add your weight with the weight of the car seat and I swear you are 75 pounds. Your poor 5'1 momma STRUGGLES carrying you around to say the least.
This week, you and I were running errands as usual. It must be pretty obvious that I struggle carrying you. I am not sure if my face turns purple from straining or if I am bent completely sideways while walking trying to hold up the weight of the car seat. Probably both. But I was pleasantly surprised when three different gentlemen went out of their way to open the store doors for me. This is called chivalry, Mason. It is when a courtesy is shown to a woman. Many say that chivalry is dead in our society and sadly, often times it is. But your Daddy always is a gentleman to me and other women. It is a trait that all men should have, but especially southern men. When you grow up, don't treat women as if they aren't equal to you - they are in many ways. But do treat them with a kind and gentle spirit. Open doors for them to walk through. Pull out a chair for them to sit in. Stand when they get up to go to the bathroom. Compliment often. Never yell. Display chivalry and be a gentleman. You will win in society every time and in the process will probably end up snagging you a beautiful, kind, gentle and appreciative woman to spend your life with!
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
You are 6 months old and weigh 20 pounds (you are so very chubby). Add your weight with the weight of the car seat and I swear you are 75 pounds. Your poor 5'1 momma STRUGGLES carrying you around to say the least.
This week, you and I were running errands as usual. It must be pretty obvious that I struggle carrying you. I am not sure if my face turns purple from straining or if I am bent completely sideways while walking trying to hold up the weight of the car seat. Probably both. But I was pleasantly surprised when three different gentlemen went out of their way to open the store doors for me. This is called chivalry, Mason. It is when a courtesy is shown to a woman. Many say that chivalry is dead in our society and sadly, often times it is. But your Daddy always is a gentleman to me and other women. It is a trait that all men should have, but especially southern men. When you grow up, don't treat women as if they aren't equal to you - they are in many ways. But do treat them with a kind and gentle spirit. Open doors for them to walk through. Pull out a chair for them to sit in. Stand when they get up to go to the bathroom. Compliment often. Never yell. Display chivalry and be a gentleman. You will win in society every time and in the process will probably end up snagging you a beautiful, kind, gentle and appreciative woman to spend your life with!
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
Monday, July 29, 2013
Pay Attention ... Miracles Happen All The Time
Dear Mason,
A few months back, a dear friend of mine's 10 year old son was diagnosed with cancer. He was healthy as can be with the exception of this bad news. Something like cancer is always scary, but when it affects a child it is utterly heart breaking. His entire family was scared, but they put their trust in God and asked their friends and family to pray for a miracle.
Just this past week, we received news that he is cancer free. Some might say that it was due to the doctors and treatment he received. Some might say it was a miracle from God. I believe it was a combination of both! There are some amazingly brilliant people in this world that save lives everyday. And the power of prayer is amazing, as I am sure you will learn yourself one day.
No matter how unfair life seems sometimes, know that God's plan always fulfills a greater purpose. This is a lot easier said than done. As mere human beings, we may never understand or comprehend the purpose of something, but trust in Him. Know that there is a reason. One of my favorite sayings that I try to live by is "You are where you are supposed to be". No matter the situation, I truly believe that with all of my heart.
Thank Him for your blessings. Consider each day that is given to you as a gift ... because none of us are promised tomorrow. Confide in him when you are mad, sad, hurt or confused. Let Him be a guide in your life during both happy and sad times. Let others see the light of God in you, for I know how special you are. After all, you are a miracle that I get to spend time with every day.
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
A few months back, a dear friend of mine's 10 year old son was diagnosed with cancer. He was healthy as can be with the exception of this bad news. Something like cancer is always scary, but when it affects a child it is utterly heart breaking. His entire family was scared, but they put their trust in God and asked their friends and family to pray for a miracle.
Just this past week, we received news that he is cancer free. Some might say that it was due to the doctors and treatment he received. Some might say it was a miracle from God. I believe it was a combination of both! There are some amazingly brilliant people in this world that save lives everyday. And the power of prayer is amazing, as I am sure you will learn yourself one day.
No matter how unfair life seems sometimes, know that God's plan always fulfills a greater purpose. This is a lot easier said than done. As mere human beings, we may never understand or comprehend the purpose of something, but trust in Him. Know that there is a reason. One of my favorite sayings that I try to live by is "You are where you are supposed to be". No matter the situation, I truly believe that with all of my heart.
Thank Him for your blessings. Consider each day that is given to you as a gift ... because none of us are promised tomorrow. Confide in him when you are mad, sad, hurt or confused. Let Him be a guide in your life during both happy and sad times. Let others see the light of God in you, for I know how special you are. After all, you are a miracle that I get to spend time with every day.
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Your First Beach Vacation
Dear Mason,
This week, we are at the beach ... Mexico Beach, FL. This is your first trip to the beach. You were an angel on the 8 hour drive. You didn't even make a peep. I assume that because you had your pretty cousin Haidyn to stare at the entire time. You certainly love her and she definitely helped keep you happy and entertained the entire vacation!
Lots of memories were made! You were NOT a fan of the ocean and especially not of waves crashing on you. You were OK with the sand ... you really just wanted to eat it. The sun was a bit annoying to you until we put sunglasses on and set you up with a tent on the beach. The pool, however, you LOVED. You splashed and kicked! Whenever we put you in the float, you would open your mouth and drink the water. I just loved that ... let me tell ya. When Daddy would go under the water and pop up, you would laugh and laugh and laugh! It was a great time!
Overall the trip was great. We had to plan our days around a lot of rain, but we still managed to have fun no matter what. You slept like a champ and were such a great sport no matter what we dragged you around to see and do. Thank you for being such a good baby! Maybe next year you will enjoy it even more! Here are some pictures from the trip.
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
This week, we are at the beach ... Mexico Beach, FL. This is your first trip to the beach. You were an angel on the 8 hour drive. You didn't even make a peep. I assume that because you had your pretty cousin Haidyn to stare at the entire time. You certainly love her and she definitely helped keep you happy and entertained the entire vacation!
Lots of memories were made! You were NOT a fan of the ocean and especially not of waves crashing on you. You were OK with the sand ... you really just wanted to eat it. The sun was a bit annoying to you until we put sunglasses on and set you up with a tent on the beach. The pool, however, you LOVED. You splashed and kicked! Whenever we put you in the float, you would open your mouth and drink the water. I just loved that ... let me tell ya. When Daddy would go under the water and pop up, you would laugh and laugh and laugh! It was a great time!
Overall the trip was great. We had to plan our days around a lot of rain, but we still managed to have fun no matter what. You slept like a champ and were such a great sport no matter what we dragged you around to see and do. Thank you for being such a good baby! Maybe next year you will enjoy it even more! Here are some pictures from the trip.
I love you baby boy.
Love,
Momma
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
My Wish For My Son, Mason
Dear Mason,
You, my precious son, are my everything. I have never experienced the kind of love I have for you. Love that is completely selfless. Love that is utterly unconditional. Love that is more powerful than any force on this planet. I have always asked God for the opportunity to witness a miracle. I never expected to be able to witness and raise his most perfect creation yet. More than anything else, I want you to know how much I love you. While I may not be important enough to be written about in history books, I want to be a legacy in your life and I will do my best to make sure I influence you in a positive way and can be a role model for your life. I want you to have zero doubt about how much you mean to your father and I. And I want you to experience the absolute best life has to offer.
I had one of my favorite "quotes" printed and hung in your nursery as a baby. Live by these five simple rules for happiness:
Life isn't always going to be easy, but oh Mason ... it sure is beautiful. I encourage you to go see the world. Meet people of all different races, ethnic backgrounds and cultures. Every experience you go through (whether good or bad) is just part of your journey. Seize each moment in each day, and learn from your experiences. My goal with this blog is to encourage you to see the good in life and the good in people. It won't always be easy, especially since the media likes to highlight a lot of the negative. Don't be ignorant about the evil that exists, but certainly don't be jaded. Passing judgement on others is meant to be in the hands of God and God alone. Believe in yourself. Be a light in other people's lives. Smile and laugh often. Do good things. Inspire the world, Mason.
I believe in you today and always.
Love,
Momma
You, my precious son, are my everything. I have never experienced the kind of love I have for you. Love that is completely selfless. Love that is utterly unconditional. Love that is more powerful than any force on this planet. I have always asked God for the opportunity to witness a miracle. I never expected to be able to witness and raise his most perfect creation yet. More than anything else, I want you to know how much I love you. While I may not be important enough to be written about in history books, I want to be a legacy in your life and I will do my best to make sure I influence you in a positive way and can be a role model for your life. I want you to have zero doubt about how much you mean to your father and I. And I want you to experience the absolute best life has to offer.
I had one of my favorite "quotes" printed and hung in your nursery as a baby. Live by these five simple rules for happiness:
- Free your heart from hatred.
- Free your mind from worries.
- Live simply.
- Give more.
- Expect less.
Life isn't always going to be easy, but oh Mason ... it sure is beautiful. I encourage you to go see the world. Meet people of all different races, ethnic backgrounds and cultures. Every experience you go through (whether good or bad) is just part of your journey. Seize each moment in each day, and learn from your experiences. My goal with this blog is to encourage you to see the good in life and the good in people. It won't always be easy, especially since the media likes to highlight a lot of the negative. Don't be ignorant about the evil that exists, but certainly don't be jaded. Passing judgement on others is meant to be in the hands of God and God alone. Believe in yourself. Be a light in other people's lives. Smile and laugh often. Do good things. Inspire the world, Mason.
I believe in you today and always.
Love,
Momma
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