At the end of June, we learned that the FFCA High School would be moving its location to a bigger, better, (and for me at least) closer school in Montgomery. So instead of a 30-45 minute drive, it will now be about 15. That is great for me. My heart goes out to the staff and students who are now facing a longer commute. I know exactly how you feel. The good side is that we are in a school that better fits our needs. I am looking forward to getting into my new classroom.
On a work related note, props to my colleague and friend Liz Amer for getting married the day after Heather and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary. We were able to attend the wedding. Liz looked fabulous and so very happy. She looked like she was in7th heaven. Congrats Liz, and I apologize in advance for the number of times I will mispronounce your new name.
Barbara has been quite the joy of my life. It has been a great month so far. This past Sunday I had the privilege of blessing her in church. I had been anticipating this event eagerly for many years, and I loved the experience. In the circle with me were Bishop Davis, Ricardo Perez, Dan Oler, Matt Harker, Barrett Swendsen, and both my father and Heather's father. Violet, unfortunately, couldn't make it, but I know she wanted to. Shelly was there with the kids...and a new boyfriend! No word on how serious it is, but she seems happy, the kids like him, and that's fine with me. After all these years, she deserves happiness in this department.
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| The education has begun |
I have learned much from being a Daddy. I have learned to place the new diaper under the old one before taking the old one off. I have learned that it does not matter what you read to the baby, she just loves to hear my voice read. I have learned that baby does not need to be held every time she cries, but it is still nice to hold her when she does. I learned that babies can bring the most amazing sense of love into the home. I learned that complete strangers will come up to you and ask about your darling little one. I learned that one can function on little sleep, but I an happy that I am not working. I learned the real origin of the term "pooped" in respect to being tired by watching her work really hard on a poop, then immediately falling asleep when it comes. Most of all, I learned that life is a little bit sweeter with a little one. I have known many people who, for one reason or another, have decided to not have kids. They prefer to pour their energies into a career, a hobby, pets, fame, power, etc. At the end of the day, I feel sorry for them. The best legacy that brings the most joy and personal satisfaction is being a good parent. You retire from your career, fancy cars break down, possessions can be taken from you, pets will die, fame is fickle, and power corrupts, but at the end of your life, it means so much to have loved ones gathered around you.
Top Ten List - Top ten things Barbara like to spit up on...
10. The spit up blankets (and we have lots)
9. Her onesies (and again, we have lots)
8. Her crib sheets
7. Her church clothes
6. Her Daddy's shoulder
5. Her Mommy's shoulder
4. Her car seat
3. Her car seat
2. Her car seat
1. Her car seat (yes, it happens a lot)
