A Letter to My Teen Son #YoplaitGoBig

I don't know how it happened, but I'm deep in the trenches of parenting a teen, with two more close behind. It's an exciting time in life as they start to express their own unique personalities. It's hard not to interfere and micromanage, but I've found that my son doesn't need me to rescue him. He's thriving all on his own. I don't think I tell him often enough!

With the launch of Yoplait Go Big, they are encouraging parents to tell their teens just how amazing they are. Go Big is a new, large yogurt pouch designed specifically with teens in mind that's made with real fruit and just the right amount of sweetness. We found it easily at Target, and the kids all loved the quick and easy way to snack on the go.

We've been writing notes to our kids since they were babies, but as they've grown, our notes have diminished. It's good to be reminded to keep telling them why we love them. I've shared these journals with my girls on our girls retreats, but somehow, we missed letting our oldest know that we've been writing letters to him his whole life. He was overwhelmed with encouragement. I'm so glad I took this opportunity to honor him!

My Sweet Man,

You're not afraid of hard things. You work with all of your might. When we first started homeschooling, I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to know enough to challenge you. What I've discovered is that you are willing to learn with me. I've learned so much from you as we study together. I've been inspired by how your love of Latin has inspired you to learn other languages like music and coding. When we've had a busy day with people going in and out of the house, it's so relaxing to sit and listen to you practice your guitar.

You show great loyalty to those you're serving as you adjust your schedule to meet their needs. I love how you love on and serve all the people that come into your life, from the special needs kids in the H2OPE swim program, to our retired neighbors. Every job you take is geared towards serving others.

It's incredible to me that you keep your body fit, not to impress others, but to be able to serve them. Even though you are very strong physically, it's your strength of character that draws people to you. When you are around others, you ask questions about their interests. You don't burden anyone with complaints, but you lighten the mood with your cheerful heart. You enjoy laughing with others, and they are blessed by it.

I'm so blessed to be a part of your life! I am inspired by how you live your life.

Mom

(you can watch his reaction here!)

Take the Yoplait Go Big Challenge

I"ll bet your teen is amazing too. Why not let Go Big spotlight that amazingness? For a chance to win the spotlight for your teen, go to the Go Big Amazing Teens contest page and share how your teen inspires you. Go Big will select three teens with amazing stories and give them a platform to show the world! For more information, full contest rules can be found on the Go Big Facebook Page.