Jan 24, 2010

Missing Matthew


It has been a difficult week. After many late-night talks, prayers and tears, my oldest child, Matthew, has decided to live with his Dad in Thatcher. Thatcher can provide the good friends, good school and all the wonderful small town experiences that any 16-year-old boy would want. Darren and Sara are excited to have Matthew in their home and I am confident that they will provide all the love and structure that he needs. I will only be a phone call (and a 5 hour drive) away!
Matthew is an amazing young man and I am so proud to be his Mom. He is a bright light and an incredible example in my life. Even as a toddler, Matthew was always concerned about my feelings. He always wanted me to be happy. He is the first to notice my new haircut or a new picture on the wall. He is quick to compliment a new recipe I try - even when everyone else in the family hates it, Matthew will say he loves it and ask for more! He never wants to hurt my feelings. He will be a wonderful husband to some lucky girl!!
During the 3 years that I was a single mom, I depended heavily on Matthew and he never let me down. He was the "man of the house" from ages 5 - 8 and his maturity, compassion and responsibility came through when I needed him the most. As a 6th grader, Matthew would lovingly comb and style Rylee's hair each morning (an extremely difficult task which Rylee never made easy) - I would leave for work before the kids were up and Matthew knew that it was important to me that Rylee look presentable. He did this because he loves me and he loves his siblings.
I know that this has been a difficult decision for Matthew, but we all feel that it will be a great experience for him. The void left in our home will be difficult for me to bear - please excuse and understand my random tears! I love this kid so much and will miss him dearly.

12 comments:

Christine said...

As soon as I saw this news in Shawn's facebook status I said a prayer for you cause I knew it would be hard for you to have him gone. You've counsled me that following the Spirit is often not easy, but it's always right. We love you and will be right down the road (as will so many wonderful people who also love you), call if you ever need a pick me up, or lunch :)

Rae Lynn said...

Summer, I sure hope that you and Matthew can find the peace and comfort that you need during this trying time. You are a strong woman filled with so much love and such tremendous faith.

Anonymous said...

matthew is an amazing kid. I am quite confident that it is because he has an amazing mom. I can't imagine the void that you and matt will feel, but knowing you both, i know it will be filled peaceful whispers from the spirit and a deep abiding knowledge of constant love from each other and HEavenly Father. You are both in my prayers!

by the way, i had no idea you had a blog. i'm pretty sure i live under a rock. it is beautiful! does your brother in law do this for fun or a job? my blog needs a make over...

Cicily said...

I'm still ticked about this, Matthew never never cleared this with me (his favorite aunt) :) Matthew is so awesome, I know this will be hard for the family but will clearly bless his. I can get to him faster, if you ever need me to.

Mammy said...

My Dear Summer,
Letting Matthew go is a totally selfless act. It shows him that you really care about him. When Shawn was six months older than Matthew is now, he flew off to Alaska to live on his own. He had graduated from high school, so I had to let him go. It is so difficult, I know, but they have to grow up. And Matthew is such a wonderful young man -- in two years, he will be off on a mission! He is such a KIND person, so sensitive, so caring, so helpful. Yes, you will miss him, but find peace in knowing that you have raised a WONDERFUL young man -- and yes, any girl who gets Matthew for a husband will be very blessed.

Melissa said...

Sad times at the Haught home. I wish I were closer so I could give you a hug. You are an amazing woman and the example you have set for Matthew over his life will be with him forever. Not very many boys Matthew's age have been taught the values that you have taught him. All of your kids are amazing and you and Shawn are great examples of near perfect parenting. Hang in there Summer:)

*Hugs*

~Melissa

Jaime said...

So just one look at the picture of you and Matthew, and I totally had the tears flowing! Summe you are the best example of what a mother should be. Matthew is so blessed to have you, and he is turned out to be such a amazing young man because of you! You are both in my prayers, I'll call you soon!

Erin said...

Summer, what an incredible Mom you are! Your kids are awesome and that is a direct reflection on you! :)

Jesika said...

Matthew is an incredible young man! I'm sure you are so proud of him.....but, don't forget about you! You are an amazing mom and the bond you two share is there forever! I have a prayer in my heart for you and Matthew! Smile!

Dangerford said...

i miss him so much too. i miss everyone. matthew is great and i hope things go great for him in thatcher. if they dont tell him he can come live with us here in japan.

Grace ~and~Shane said...

Summer,

Though I don't know your son that well. I know that your standards are ones that I look up to and respect. And a person of your intergity I am glad to call you my friend. Your son will do great in anything he does. He has been taught from a very fine Daughter of God. Though the time maybe challenging always know he looks to you for your fine example and wisdom.

Kelly said...

Hey Summer, I just found your blog. I am so glad to see your adorable pics and hear about your kids. My heart is so full for Matthew and you guys. What a gut wrenching decision, one that just isn't black and white. I admire you guys so much for all being honest with eachother and for using such discernment. I hope that in my parenting i can have as much discernment. Love you guys.

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