My graduate

Dear Peter,

It is so hard to believe that you are ready to graduate. I can hardly imagine that it has already been 9 years since I first sent you off to school, bright eyed and full of wonder and ready for the adventure of kindergarten.

And what an adventure it was--I believe that was the year that you brought home an already dead frog, tucked carefully in your pocket to check out later. ONly you didn't get to it, and I ended up washing and drying it instead--it did not survive that ride either. I thought it had been alive before the cleansing ordeal, but you disappointedly assured me that it had been previously flattened on the pavement and you had just wanted to check it out more. Since then, I've been gingerly checking your pockets before I do laundry.

You are growing into a young man who is still bright eyed and full of wonder--your mind amazes me. The things you think and share with us often make me lift my eyes to heaven and thank Father that He has you in His hand. Never never forget that. Keep living for Him (whether you're doing science, tearing into something to figure out how it works, or caring for a friend who is injured instead of running a race). Yes, sometimes things you do disappoint me, but I am always proud of you, and want you to be your best--not for me, but for God.

A lot of people have helped you along your way. I am grateful for them, whether they were teaching you, baby sitting you, playing with you, or praying for you.

You have taught me a lot about life through the years. Be patient with me, I'm still learning, too.

I love you, bud!

Mom