My precious Parker! Where do I begin? My first born, my millennium baby, the boy that made me a mom. Y2K, was the year that most people feared because computers were supposed to crash, the world was supposed to end, and so many other falsities were supposed to happen. For me, it was a year of hope and new beginnings because it was the year you would make your debut! I feared, but I feared for other reasons. Would I be a good mom, would I be able to protect you, would I be able to provide for all your hearts desires? My heart would forever walk around outside my body the day you were born! These 17 years have flown by!
I am somewhat overwhelmed at the thought that you are actually about to graduate. I will more than miss our days together at Jersey Village. It truly is a highlight of my day when you stop by for a brief visit, even if it is just as you are passing me in the hall on your way to class. I will always cherish the time we were able to spend together throughout your high school years. People always asked me why I went into teaching. It had always been a passion of mine since I was a little girl, but in college I thought I might head in a different direction and become a physical therapist because like all graduating kids, I wanted to make money and have a prestigious job. I soon figured out that was not the path for me. I was really good in English and Speech and decided I would pursue that path and become a teacher. Forever Spring Breaks, holiday vacations, and paid summers off with my kids seemed pretty awesome too! This job has afforded me so much more than those things and so many opportunities. I have met and worked with some amazing people and students along the way. Many of them are your mentors and friends. You have always had a "village" to look out for you here! More than anything, this job has allowed me to experience your high school years through your eyes and with you and your friends.
As you begin this new chapter in your life, there is so much that I hope and wish for you. First of all, always believe in yourself. Believing in yourself is not the same as thinking you are hot stuff! It's about staying true to yourself and being proud of who you are...humble, kind, affectionate, and a family man.You are smarter than you know, but there is always room to grow and learn. Keep your sense of humor. Laughter really is the best medicine, and a smile is always free to give. Don't be afraid to be like Kiki and laugh so hard you sometimes snort! It's good for the soul! Make new friends, but keep your old friends too. Friends are the people you will want to share your life and adventures with in college and beyond.
Most of all, know that I will always be here for you! I am your #1 fan and biggest supporter. No matter how old you get or how much taller than me you are, I will always be your mom. I will always have time to talk and listen to you. I will always have time to see you, even if it means making the trip to Aggieland after I get off work to have dinner with you. Know that I will always try to understand and support you. I may not always give you the advice you want to hear. It isn't because I don't love and support you, it's because I love you too much to just tell you what you want to hear.
Our house will not be the same next year with us all not going to bed under the same roof each night. I will miss getting to tell you goodnight, visiting with you, having you make fun of my home cooked meals, and most of all just seeing your smile. Thank God for Facetime, weekend visits, holidays, and summers you get to spend at home. I am beyond proud of you! Parker Michael Thomas, Mr. Magna Cum Laude, Future Aggie, Soon to be Graduate, you continue to amaze me! Gig em Aggies!!!
I love you always and forever!
Mom
