I know I haven't always been the greatest mother. I've never been a great cook and Lord knows I've not been a great housekeeper. But nevertheless, I have tried to be a good mom in other ways. I don't think you guys have ever felt unloved by me, have you?

I don't know how to help you feel better other than to tell you I'm very proud of you right now. Brian is, too. You took a little detour for a couple years, which set you back maybe a little bit from some of the other people your age, but lots of people do that, including me. I did the same thing and I didn't turn out too bad, did I? My life is a little boring, but when you get older you reach a point were life is just comfortable. I guess having so many ups and downs in my life with my dad and step dad, your dad and Jim, that at this point in my life I am just thankful my life has settled down and I don't have to go through any of that craziness anymore.

My life was always in so much turmoil, it just feels to be able to relax and not be worried all the time. I hope you can understand this.

But back to you. So you took a little detour for a while. It's not the end of the world. The important thing is that hopefully you've learned from your mistakes and you are making an effort to correct them. Just be patient. Your day to shine will come and all your hard work will pay off. I have faith in you. I know what you are capable of and I hope one day you will put us all to shame with what you've achieved. Nothing could make me happier as a mother than to see all my kids succeed in life, and I know you will. Be patient. Appreciate the good things in your life and try not to focus on what's bad. You are an extremely intelligent young man and you have a lot to be thankful for. Just keep doing like you are doing now. You are headed in the right direction. Tomorrow will look brighter, it always does.