Story Snippets: All She Ever Wanted

She trotted her big roan horse over the hill, trying to get ahead of some cows. They'd ridden up from the bottom to push the cows to more feed. It was dry and dusty after a long hot summer with nearly no rain. The sage, cedar, and dust of the cow trail filled her senses as the sun dipped behind the horizon. She came down off the hill at a run, beating the horned cow before she got too far north. As she turned around to look back up the hill, she laughed out loud with delight to see two little hats bobbing above the sagebrush; her two little boys on their ponies, staying behind the herd and pushing them down the hill. This is it, she thought. All I ever wanted.

Tell is 7

My dear sweet boy,

As the years fly by and I watch you grow up, I can't help but be ecstatic, heartbroken, and incredibly proud. Each version of you is my favorite and none of them are permanent. You're changing before my eyes. Getting so independent, yet still wanting to be my little boy. 

I'm sorry I'm impatient most of the time. I feel like I rarely have a moment to slow down and just look at you. Your beautiful green eyes, the sweet sprinkle of freckles across your nose, those long dark eyelashes. You're always so thoughtful and helpful to me. Your sweet spirit radiates light and kindness everywhere you go. You love everyone and every person you meet is a potential new friend. You teach me every day how to be more like our Savior. I can't imagine a person more like Him than you, my sweet boy.

You're so funny and the most talkative little person. You're bright and sometimes sarcastic, really leaning into your attitude lately. You're smart and stubborn and are always full of big ideas. I love how creative you are. 

You always say you are everything you love and that is beautiful to me. You are so wise beyond your years. Everyone is made up of the things they love, and it's unbelievable that you recognize that at such a young age. 

Don't let the world tamp down your sweet spirit. You're tough too, so don't let anyone step on your toes. I love you more than life, sweet Tell boy. Happiest birthday. 

Love, Mama