We Are Your Parents, and We Might Mess You Up a Bit

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We Are Your Parents, and We Might Mess You Up a Bit

by Jamie Taylor
Updated: November 16, 2016
Originally Published: November 14, 2016

Dear Kiddo,

Happy 8th Birthday! Before you hit those glorious teenage years—when you might just think I’m the worst—I wanted to take a moment to express how deeply I love you.

To be honest, before you came along, I was pretty indifferent about having kids. Not the most heartwarming start, I know, but stick with me; it gets better! Becoming a mom wasn’t exactly on my radar until I met your dad. At first, I wasn’t even considering dating him. But then he wowed me with pancakes and I realized not every guy 1) listens, 2) can whip up breakfast, 3) has that charming smile, and 4) actually likes me. Two years later, you arrived, and everything changed.

You are the beautiful blend of your dad and me. It might not sound like a big deal, but trust me, it means everything. You’re sensitive, fiercely loyal, hilarious, kind, incredibly smart, and yes, adorably chubby. You’re also athletic and determined.

As young parents, we were terrified. How could we fit a baby into our early 20s? How would we provide the love and support we didn’t quite receive from our own parents? We know we mess up—like that time your dad jokingly described Jesus as more of a zombie than the son of God. Yeah, you probably weren’t a fan of him that day. Honestly, I wasn’t either. Or the time he thought handing me an iTunes gift card was a romantic gesture on Valentine’s Day. Classic, right?

And remember that Girl Scout trip to New York City when I lost my cool and yanked you around like you were three? I know it was embarrassing, and you bring it up all the time—talk about guilt!

We are your parents, and here’s the reality:

• We will hurt you.
• We will make you cry.
• We will disappoint you.
• We won’t always give you what you want.
• We might not pay for college.
• We’ll keep pushing those vegetables.
• We’ll yell sometimes.
• We might shut off the TV when you least expect it.
• We may ask you to toughen up.
• And yes, we’ll need your help when we’re old!

Your dad and I are dreamers—not venture capitalists—so our bank account may be light, but our love is heavy. We hope you grow up knowing that money and love are two very different things. We believe in laying it all out there, like a disclaimer for our parenting flaws, just in case you ever seek therapy!

Despite our mishaps, let me be crystal clear: we are your biggest fans and loudest supporters. We’ll always be here for you, no matter what. You can share anything with us, and we promise to love you unconditionally. We will guide you through life’s unfairness and help you navigate privilege. You are our daughter, a testament to our love, commitment, and aspirations.

On this first day of your eighth year, our love for you is as strong as it was the moment you were born. We are proud of you, inspired by your grace, and truly amazed that you love us back. You are our shining star and our little peanut. Live life to the fullest—take nothing for granted, don’t let anyone walk all over you, and be everything you aspire to be.

With all our love,
Mom & Dad

P.S. If you want to explore more about the journey of becoming a parent, check out this insightful post on home insemination. You can also find excellent resources on fertility treatments at March of Dimes. And for those looking for a reliable option, Make a Mom is a great authority on home insemination kits.

Summary:

In a heartfelt letter to her 8-year-old, Jamie reflects on the complexities of parenting, the love and challenges that come with it, and the inevitable mistakes that arise along the way. Despite their shortcomings, she emphasizes their unconditional love and support.