A letter to my freshman...

Dear Avery,

It was just a few sleeps ago that we were preparing for kindergarten. I was so concerned that you would lose your glasses and forget your 4 digit lunch code. Most of all, I knew my days would be empty without you.

Suddenly, it is your first day of high school...

I am so proud of the young man that you are becoming. The love that I have for you is seriously indescribable. You were the first to teach me all that I know about being a mom. You will be the first to teach me to become a mom to a highschooler. I am sure I will worry, fuss and cry. Thankfully, you are used to it, and take it all in stride.

The next four years of your life are going to bring so many changes. I know that I am not ready for them, but you are. It is going to be a time of spiritual decisions that your dad and I can no longer make for you. Your walk with God is completely in your hands.

You know me well enough to know that I loovvvee to give you advice, and I feel it is an important time for some. :)

Strive to go further in the Lord than you have ever been. If your relationship with him is on steadfast ground then every situation you face will be filtered through Him. My heart explodes when I watch you worship or walk by your room and see you kneeling in prayer. The spiritual decisions that you make in the next months and years will carry you through your adult life, so go deeper, desire more from God. He has so much for you!

Choose your friends prayerfully and wisely. They are so influential in your life during these next four years. Look for friends that desire to walk, talk, and live Godly. Surround yourself with believers. Have fun, laugh, and enjoy this time. Let it be a time of joy and confidence, not insecurity. You have been blessed with so much to be secure in.

Beware of the pitfalls that Satan has laid for young men. If you do not have a DAILY relationship with the Lord, then you will easily fall into the snares of sin. Decide in your heart now to say NO to wrong situations before they  occur. “How can a young man keep his way pure? But keeping it according to God’s word.” (Psalm 119:9) Like Job, make a covenant with your eyes. (Job 31:1)

Study hard. Do your best academically. Take pride in all of your work. One day you will be look back and be able to stand tall because of your hard work, and be ready for your next step of education. Be kind and polite to all of those around you. Please make your Mama happy and remember to use your manners with the teachers and faculty.

Although friends are important during this time, family always comes first. Although, your brothers get on your last nerve at times, they will always be your best friends. You are so sweet to your new little sister. Always be her protector. Continue to stay close to your dad. I love the relationship that the two of you have. He is a man of honor and integrity, he expects no less of you. He has a prayer life like no one else that I know, may that same hunger live in you. Always come to him for advice before others. The two of you can take any situation before the Lord. Please know that I am and always will be your biggest fan. I believe in you and want the best for you, even when I drive you crazy about chores, manners, wearing your seat belt, etc, etc...

Your dad and I do not ask for perfection. We know that mistakes happen, we have made plenty. But we do ask that you strive be your best. Where much is given, much is required. When those rocky times come, and you are seeking the Lord's will for your next step in life, always remember a promise from someone who loves your more than I am capable of...

"I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

I love you,

Mom xoxo