Dear Bugger Butt...

You absolutely amaze me. You never fail to make me smile. Never, ever doubt how much you are loved.

Dear Punkin...

Why did you lie to me? We had such a great week (I thought), I even bragged to everyone about how wonderfully behaved you have been. Now I find out you were lying about your missing assignments all week. I hate that I have to discipline you just before you leave for 6 weeks with your Dad. It really breaks my heart. I want to be the same comforting Mom that I always have been, but I am also the only one here to teach you integrity and responsibility. I would love to give you more freedom, but you keep showing me that you can't handle it. You were more responsible and trust-worthy 2 years ago than you are today.

Dear Bugger Butt...

Yes, tonight was all about your brother. That's what happens when we go watch him play in the orchestra. It is about him. You'll have your turn-don't worry. Besides, tomorrow you're having a sleepover-that will be about you.

Dear Punkin...

You shouldn't feel guilty for reaching milestones and learning new things without your Dad. He chose this. I don't think it's ever really going to stop sucking that he's not here when you want him to be, but I will be damned if you're going to hold yourself back from anything because of him.

Dear Punkin...

You really didn't deserve that new cell phone last night. Had I realized you were getting an F in Math before I gave it to you, I wouldn't have. But, since it is your only way of keeping in touch with your Dad and you were grateful to accept it--even from L, I am going to let you keep it. The X-Box is another story!