Dear Future Child...

I have dreamed of you since I was a child... I do not know you yet, as I am 18 and no where near ready for you. But as your mom I want you to know I am here for you.

I am here for you at 2 in the morning when your boyfriend or girlfriend broke your heart. I am here to listen to your tears and reasons why life is so less than satisfactory at the moment and to remind you of why you are special and loved and why life is a gift. Don't think you can't come to my room and lay with me because you can't stop crying yourself to sleep. Don't think I won't cancel my plans to make sure you are okay. You will be all I have dreamed of.

I will be there for the goods and the bads. Every accomplishment you make I will be your biggest fan. Don't think I will ever be ashamed of you no matter the mistakes you make. I am here to teach you, not to judge you for your mistakes, because it is likely I have made close to the same ones. If you ever find yourself halfway through a bottle full of demons and with a boy/girl full of lies, put it down, leave them and call me, don't think I won't come get you and hold you until you fall asleep when we arrive back home.There is NOTHING you can do that will make me love you less.

If you ever feel complete sadness and despair, don't keep the pain to yourself as I did, watching you grow will be my greatest joy and seeing you love life like I do will make all the pain you once felt, worth it. Life is tough, sweetheart, but you are too! I had my time. Your sufferings are mine. If you are ever too sad to get up, just wait, we will drive until you don't want to drive anymore and talk until there are no more words to express your feelings, then we will go back home, put on your favorite movie, and fall asleep knowing I love you with all the love in my heart.

With love,

Your Mom (at 18)