First Day of School

Our first day of school started out like every first day of school.  As long as I didn't let myself think about the fact that my firstborn was going to high school!  I always have butterflies in my stomach at the beginning of school, but today I had a swarm of butterflies!
We had our traditional breakfast of French toast and bacon.  Gavin ate well, but Enoch was nervous and didn't eat a lot.

 

 Of course, we got first-day-of-school pictures.  But, no picture bush this year - it got torn out.

Such handsome boys!  Although I don't know what is going on with Enoch's smile?

Gavin was so excited to be off.  Enoch was so nervous.  But, he likes his teacher, Mrs. Bailey, and knew it would be a good year.

Good luck, boys!  It will be an awesome year!

Whenever my kids start a new school, I write them a letter.  This year I'm a bit overwhelmed and emotional about Gavin being old enough to be in high school!  I don't think I can get through a letter.  Whimpy, I know, but I am really taking this hard.  I wrote this letter to Gavin while he was at Jamboree.  I think it fits today.

Fifteen Things I Like About Gavin

by: Mom

1. You know when to help.

Heavenly Father has given you a wonderful blessing to be inspired to serve. Never ignore those promptings. Those promptings to serve will bless you and those around you. Knowing what needs to be done is a character trait that few people have. You instinctively know what needs to happen. You are a doer. Keep it up!

2. You are so much fun.

You make us laugh. You make us smile. You make us have fun. Keep making us have fun – mom and dad sometimes forget!

3. You are a good friend.

You make friends so easily. More importantly, you keep friends. Most important of all, you choose good friends. You surround yourself with people who have the same values as you and help you make good choices. Work hard to keep those friends – you will never regret having great friends.

4. You are a good brother.

Heavenly Father chose you to be the big brother – the biggest brother. Because you can do it. Not everyone can handle being the oldest. It is a lot of responsibility to protect your younger siblings and be an example. You are the best big brother!

5. You are a good person.

This is so basic and so profound. Not everyone is fundamentally good – and you are. You want to be good, you work at being good and you make it happen. It is part of who you are and you don't ignore it for temporary pleasures.

6. You are so good at making brownies.

This may sound funny, but I love your brownies! You have so many different talents and making yummy brownies is only one of them. You are great at music, school, leadership, building, creating, sports, putting people at ease, being funny, etc.

7. You rarely slow down.

You always have been in motion. As a baby, you would never stop. As a teenager, you are so involved. Stay involved, stay active, stay engaged. You have so much to offer the world. Don't hide your talents.

8. You can speak to anyone.

I so admire this talent of yours. You can talk to children and adults. You can talk to friends and strangers. You can talk about easy things and hard things. You are going to be the most amazingly incredible missionary.

9. You are so cute.

Gavin, you really are a handsome young man. Those eyes of yours are stunning. Your valiant spirit shines through your eyes and lights you up. Just remember to keep the girls at bay until after your mission!

10. You are dedicated to the Gospel.

You know your scriptures. You know the doctrine. You have the Spirit. You grow your testimony. You respect your Priesthood. You are willing to accept callings and serve. You are chosen.

11. You go the extra mile.

I've always loved this about you. You are not afraid to do more. You are not afraid of work and effort. You do your best, even when it is hard.

12. You try new things.

(maybe except for books!) You are a perfectionist and I know this is hard for you. But, I've seen you overcome your fears of being perfect to try new things. You have so many interests and hobbies. You are so varied and that will bring you happiness in your life.

13. You are honest.

I've seen and heard you be honest. Sometimes this is so difficult – and you do it. Being honest is one of the best traits you can have. Always be honest – to yourself and your Heavenly Father.

14. You are my son.

I can't even think of the words to write so you know how much I love you. Right now, I'm teary because I know when you read this you will be away from me for a long time. I love you so much! When you were little I remember thinking that there could not be a parent in the world who loved their child more than I loved you. I still think that. I love you!

15. You are a son of God.

Never ever forget this. You are a Son of God. Always remember how amazing that is. Always remember how much He wants to help you come back to Him. Always remember how much he loves you.