On Instagram a few weeks ago, I snapped a picture of our anniversary and writing in our journals for the kids. A few of you had questions on what we do, so I wanted to share this very easy family tradition with you.

I love to write letters. When I went to summer camp, we would get a list of names and addresses at the end of the week, and I would write to every single friend I had made. Some of those friendships lasted for years, just over the excitement and sincerity found in the mail.

When I left for college, my mother game me a journal that she had written to me. I tucked it into my bookshelf and didn’t think about it much during the first semester. Then, when things got a little lonely, after I was over the excitement of being at the greatest university in the world (Texas A&M of course), I pulled out the journal and carefully read and reread every word. I framed one of the poems she wrote and look at it every morning to this day. When Julia was born, I wanted to give the same gift to my baby. I told Brian my idea and he was completely supportive.

Now, we both know that at the end of our anniversary dinner, we will spend a few minutes in prayer for our children. We will pull out the journal and each write a new letter. This year, I looked over what I had written in past years. It was special to see not just the growth of the kids in the letters, but to see my growth as a mother. The letters changed from favorite toys to favorite prayers and characteristics.

I’ve started adding a few pictures and cards, tucked here and there.

There is a little part of me that is giddy at finally giving it to them someday. There is another little part of me that knows that I will be handing over my role in their life when I give them that journal. That day, I will change from an ever present voice to a home base. I will loosen my grip a little more, finally letting go and turn them over to a world where I pray that find kindness and laughter.