My Dearest Damian

I know this is no surprise to you or anyone who knows us so bare with my overly obsessed letter to you. Damian, I want you to know how proud I am of you. 

I am so proud of the young man you are and who you are becoming. I am proud of the great decisions you have made in your life so far. I am proud of the kindness and gentleness you hold. I am so proud of your willingness to adapt and also take with ease many changes that take place. 

I love your sarcastic humor and the silliness you are so full of. I love the times when we just get to lounge and watch our shows together. I love the times when I get to see you thrive in doing what you love. I love seeing you explore youtube for how to make different ties. 

There is so much to be thankful for when I think of you. I am thankful that your dad and I have been blessed with this ONE amazing son who without a doubt is the light of our lives. I am thankful that you have blessed my life in ways you can not yet understand until you are a father. 

I would encourage you to continue to make good choices and understand the consequences for wrong ones. I encourage you to continue to grow closer to your Heavenly Father in prayer, relying on Him for guidance you might feel not sure about asking us. Damian, begin to ponder what your future holds. How will you continue your education? How will you prepare for a mission both physically and spiritually? How will you prepare to choose a eternal companion? I know some of these come early at age 14 but as you begin to think of these things, you will find yourself making choices that will reflect the differences than that of some other friends. 

I know you will never doubt my love for you. I have always and will always show my love, no matter how annoying it can be and no matter how many tackles it takes to get a kiss. I will be here for you at every turn in life you make. I will support you when you fall and I will praise you when you succeed. There is no end to forgiveness as a mother. 

I know with every part of me that you were sent here to us to make us better people. In my heart Heavenly Father created you! You are my world and I am so lucky to be called your mom! 

Happy 14th birthday Damian Payne Troutman~~

Love,

Mom