Dear Children,
It’s my day to write, and I’m short on time and inspiration. So instead of trying to articulate my deep thoughts and feelings, I will share some memories of when you were little.
There are a few lines about each of you. You might be able to guess who I’m referring to with each individual memory, but some of the memories fit more than one of you. Have fun walking down memory lane with your siblings.
When you were little, you would spend your afternoon quiet time crafting. You used all kinds of materials to make cards and posters, build robots, make flower gardens, draw family portraits, and color and paint elaborate mazes. You still spend quiet time crafting when you can. You have sewn yourself a summer wardrobe that’s as cute as you are.
When you were little, you learned skills like whistling, skipping, and tying your shoes quickly. It seemed like there was nothing you couldn’t figure out, and mostly, you weren’t afraid to try. These days, you’re often trying new recipes, exploring new places, and meeting new friends.
When you were little, you preferred dresses to pants. One cold winter day, you wanted to visit your neighborhood friend. I wouldn’t let you leave the house until you put on pants because it was “too cold for a dress.” You insisted that it was never too cold for a dress. Now, you do wear pants when it’s cold outside, but you prefer the weather to fit your dress preferences. If only you could always have warm weather.
When you were little, you were a fact gatherer. You liked to watch science videos. Space was especially interesting. You liked to know how things worked and why. You are still curious. You like to know how one thing causes another. You use your understanding of cause and effect to make decisions.
When you were little, you were afraid of dark rooms, loud sounds, and people in masks. Surprise and uncertainty set you off, and they still do.
When you were little, you believed everybody had your best interests at heart. You didn’t think people would lie to you. You never suspected somebody might “make up a story.” Now, you are more wary of where you source truth, but if somebody speaks with confidence and authority, you’re drawn in.
When you were little, you often said, “It’s okay because.” Once, while our family was swimming at a public pool, Dad lifted you onto his shoulders to walk across the shallow end. You said, “My swimsuit is wet, but it’s okay because I only peed a little.” Now, you’re good at talking your way out of trouble with humor.
When you were little, you were afraid of animals. In elementary school, a dog used to bark at you every day when you walked home from the bus stop. I think he chased you once. You’re still not a fan of animals.
When you were little, you loved animals. You wanted a pet so badly that you made a sign to post in our driveway, “Free Puppies!” With sidewalk chalk, you wrote, “Put them here,” and drew a big X. You still like animals, but you don’t like them when they’re stinky.
When you were little, you loved plants. You liked visiting Grandma’s house, making bouquets, and gathering raspberries. You liked to pick roses from our backyard. You still love plants. You like bright flowers. You like to see plants thrive.
When you were little, every morning, you’d ask, “What are we doing today?” You were always planning for a good time, and you still do.
When you were little, nothing made you crazier than missing things. You kept track of all of your favorite things. Sometimes you would line up your favorite bags, toys, or outfits. You liked things just right. You also liked puzzles, but you loathed puzzles with missing pieces. Now, you’re determined to do what it takes to achieve the outcome you want. You won’t give up until you get things just right.
When you were little, you were very particular about food and liked the same breakfast and after-school snack nearly every day. Today you like more variety. You appreciate different types of foods. You especially like trying different drink combinations.
When you were little, you didn’t want to join your preschool group on a special trip to the fire station. You chose, instead, to stay at home, in your pajamas and play your favorite Memory Game with me. You still prefer comfy clothes and playing games at home with your people over public events.
When you were little, you were a performer. I have so many selfies and funny videos from you. You still keep us laughing and entertained with your impersonations.
When you were little, you used to love a good snow day. You’d play outside for hours. You still prefer chilly weather to sweating.
When you were little, you drew the most cruelly accurate caricatures. You still have a way with images and words.
When you were little, you were so careful with your hair and clothes. Even though the effort wasn’t necessary because you’re naturally good-looking, you’re incredibly handsome.
When you were little, you always asked to have friends over. Always. You were an inviter and includer, and you still are.
When you were little, you admired your older siblings and cherished the younger ones. You still do.
Love,
Mom
P.S. I couldn’t find the picture I wanted of all of you standing in front of the Mergmobile the day Dad brought it home from the Detroit dealership. Instead, this picture shows the innocence of youth—a tear in the knee, colored ice cream, cowboy boots, a Disney shirt, and a healing scar on your face from an altercation with a sibling.
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