The "Mostest"

I love my kids the mostest.  Yes, that's right...the mostest.  I know, you think "mostest" is not a real word, but in this house, it is!  People say that they would do anything for their children all the time, but when it comes down to it, those words are often empty.  I, on the other hand, mean it.  I have stood on my head while singing the raindrop song while in my pajamas while my conference call is on mute and the phone is on the other side of the room just because my son had a bad day and that song makes him laugh.  I've helped wrestle the alligator that lives under my son's bed in order for him to sleep better at night. 

I do voices when I read them stories, even when it is the same story EVERY  NIGHT!  I protect them, I fight for them, I would give up everything in this world for them.  I sing to them hundreds of silly songs, kiss their owies, make their favorite meals, and most importantly try to teach them everything that I can.  But as they grow, I am realizing that I cannot always be there for them.  It is with these thoughts that I devised the following list.  Things my children should know as their independence blossoms.

1) Life is not fair! Okay I said it. My mother said it to me and I am saying it to you. Get used to it because there is little you can do about it.
2) Enjoy your childhood.  You only get to live it once.  One day your life will be filled with adult stuff...and frankly, adult stuff leaves a lot to be desired.
3) Love with all of your heart! 
4) Never be ashamed to be smart.  Anyone can make themselves pretty but not everyone is smart!
5) Anything that you do, give 200%.  Beat others at their own game.  Be awesome!
6) The best education you will ever get is what you teach yourself.  Keep your eyes and your mind open.  See and experience the world...travel, read books, meet new people...take it all in!
7) Choose your role models wisely.   
8) Read! Everyday!  You can go anywhere within a book! 
9) You are growing up in the technological age, but internet/text message acronyms should never be used in real writing or spoken.  EVER!  This fad just may become the death of the English language and I refuse to allow you to be a part of that.
10) Accept yourself for who you are.  You are one-of-a-kind!  If someone does not like you, it is their loss...not yours.
11) Have confidence in yourself. 
12) Enjoy naps while you still have time for them. One day (maybe not anytime soon, but one day) you will wish that you had two extra hours to go take a nap!
13) Never be afraid to laugh at yourself and don't worry if you are the only one laughing!
14) "Not all who wander are lost".  This is especially important to remember when you visit Granddaddad or are in the car with Mommy.
But most importantly remember:
15) Where ever you are in life know that I love you the mostest!