Damon,

When you and your brother were much younger someone told me the days are slow but the years are fast. Looking back over the last 18 years I have found this to be true. The next few months will hold some monumental changes for you and admittedly for your parents. I will miss seeing you everyday and hearing you share the tales from your adventures at school, work or with friends. I’ll also miss having your friends around. You have brought me so much joy and I expect you will continue to make your Mom and Dad proud. As you go off to college I’d encourage you to: Be Kind, Be Courageous, Be Honest, Be Bold, Believe in Yourself, Accept failure but don’t let it define you. Dream big. Be true to yourself and your Heavenly Father. Find your passion and pursue it. Be a good friend and value your friendships. You are Smart, Witty, Funny, Independent, Strong Minded, Driven, Hardworking, and the list goes on… all qualities which will take you a long way. My role in your day to day will change over the next few years but my love for you will only continue to grow. I’ll always be there for you – encouraging, supporting and cheering you on. I am beyond proud of the young man you have become and look forward to the journey that lies ahead. I love you!

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”