It is my H-O-N-O-R to be your mummy

Dear Anderson,

You started taking piano lessons the summer of 2013.  Within three months, you had your first recital at the amphitheater in North Park.  Having just turned five, you waltzed on to the stage in front of a sizable audience of strangers in Springboro and played "Old Macdonald had a Farm."

Fast forward, four months...as the youngest participant and only Kindergarten student you entered your school's spelling bee.  In the audience that morning, your mummy sat on the edge of her seat, beaming with pride yet conflicted with a nervousness that was causing my underarms to rain. I was so nervous for you, nervous that you'd be devastated if you didn't proceed to the next round. We are a competitive family, and I can honestly say that gene was undeniable. Sorry kiddo. How soon I realized my nervousness was my own, because when I looked at you and your dangling feet that were not quite long enough to reach the floor yet, you had a calm and collected confidence as you patiently waited, listening to the other hundred kids taking their turn. There is a reason your momma was chosen to play the Statue of Liberty, the only nonspeaking part in her elementary school "Coming to America" play.

You marched up to the microphone (that in itself would make me pee) and clearly stated your name and spelled: A-N-D-E-R-S-O-N-  E-L-L-I-O-T.  I jumped for joy that you made it past the practice round! As I told you before the event, just "do your best." You just being up there was enough for me, Anderson. But, what you did next simply amazed me - as you often do.  You made it through two other rounds, rounds in which the words dictated were random and not kind to age, grade or the like.  When you did have to take a seat, the word that took you down was H-O-N-O-R.  How appropriate.  As a noun, "honor" is defined as high respect; esteem and as a privilege.  As a verb, "honor" is defined as in "regard with great respect" or to "fulfill or keep (an agreement)." 

Anderson, it is an honor to be your mother.  I will honor you, always my luv. xo