Happy Easter; A Letter

Dearest Camren,

Yesterday was a beautiful day, typical of a Utah springtime.  The white snow in the mountaintops rivaled the loveliness of the white blossoms in the trees.  The sun was shining.  The cloudless sky was a brilliant shade of blue, and a cool breeze whispered through the cherry-red tulips.

You looked up at me, with your dark, dreamy eyes, and asked, "I go outside?"

There was enough of a chill in the air that we decided to sit on the sun-drenched front steps, taking comfort in the warmth of the cement beneath us.  You sat down right beside me--the weight of your head against my arm, your hand, like a puppy dog paw, resting at my knee.  We sat together--quiet, content--listening to the ducks quack in the pond across the street.    I relished in the gentle nearness of your little body, as you happily sucked your thumb.  I closed my eyes, tilted my head back, and turned my face to the sun.

I sighed as the warm rays danced across my cheeks, and thought:  You won't stay a little boy forever. 

You will grow up quickly--it's painfully inevitable.  So here is what I want you to know:  You have a wondrous, awe-inspiring life ahead of you, filled with love and laughter and springtime days.  Strive to find the joy in the little things your life offers...like sharing a warm front step with your mother.

And when April showers come and the rains of loneliness, sorrow, and despair threaten to wash your faith away--remember, you are not alone.  You are not forgotten.  For now matter what happens--in good times and in challenging times, in peace, in confusion, in fear, in triumph and success--always, always remember this one invaluable thing...

Turn your face to the Son.

I love you, darling,
Your mama