To Anderson, my youngest, and the final piece of our puzzle,

Your confidence and determination make me swell with pride, but at the same time scare the hell out of me. Your older brother was the “trap” baby, and now I find myself running after you in fear as you toddle to your next adventure. You already have a love of music, and I hope that you will learn to play the “tar” (guitar) as you call it and cry for it as we are at Nana and Poppy’s house. Music has power, Anderson. It can transport you back in time or bring tears to your eyes. It can brighten the mood and bring people together. When all else fells dear sweet Boy, turn on and turn up the music. Why do you think mom asks Alexa to play music every morning?

Anderson, God made us all to be who we are. Don’t try to run from who you are. You won’t get very far. Embrace who you are! People, you haven’t met yet, will appreciate it and you- they are “your people”. As you get older, you find you might not have as many people as you did when you were younger. That’s okay. The people you call “friend” as an adult are so very special. They love you and embrace that your house isn’t a mansion and the ravioli stains on the highchair. “Your people” are also the ones under your roof.

Anderson, stop pulling your cat’s tail! This is easily a metaphor for later in life- how you treat people is important! Be kind. Don’t worry if you don’t fall into the “cool” crowd. Don’t worry about being in any crowd for that matter. I’ve found that being somewhere in the middle is just right. You get to be friends with all kinds of people that shape your life in ways you can only imagine. Some of my closest friends are 20 plus years older than me.

Don’t forget to have fun and laugh. Laugh until it hurts and tears stream down your face. Your mom tends to be too serious at times. Live in EVERY moment. Take it in. Hug your grandparents EVERY time you see them. You don’t know when the last time will be when you see someone. Leave them better than you found them.

Chase your dreams. Travel. Find a job that makes you happy and makes you feel like you make a difference. Don’t worry about how much you get paid. Yes, you need money to pay bills but don’t seek it for your happiness. You won’t find it there.

Remember, turn it over to God when life gets hard. He’s got this and you! If you think you are having trouble finding him, look up at the trees, listen to the wind, talk to an old friend, look in your children’s eyes- he’s there. He will be and has always been there. Sometimes unanswered prayers are answered prayers.

Anderson, we love you and are proud of you! Keep letting the music in your heart guide you.