Made A Wish...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

"We made a wish and two came true."

My heart is full of love and gratitude today. My recent words for you have been filled with advice, pleadings, and my thoughts on our Savior. The past five posts contain "The Six B's" which come from an amazing talk given by President Gordon B. Hinckley. He tells us to "Be Grateful, Be Smart, Be Clean, Be True, Be Humble, and Be Prayerful". What wonderful advice to be given. And, although I may have ranted and lectured in my recent posts, I want you to know it is out of love. The lessons taught by President Hinckley are one of a kind. I was blessed to be able to listen to his words on a regular basis.

If you follow his words, you will not regret it.
Now, back to the gratitude that I am feeling. We are 22 weeks and 6 days into this awesome journey. Each and everyday, we inch a little closer to the day when you boys will enter this world. It warms my heart, sends chills down my spin, and makes me a little sick to my stomach. I am so excited for your arrival, but I am so nervous about being a good father. All I know is that I will work tirelessly to provide for you. I will always show you love, and I will always be there for you. I am so grateful that I was chosen to be your father. What an incredible gift to be given. What an awesome responsibility to have bestowed upon my head. I cannot describe the joy that I felt yesterday.
Yesterday, your mommy and I got to see you boys again. We got to hang out with you guys, and it was awesome. We even made it Facebook official! You guys are kind of a big deal.
While we were chillin' at the CMFM, the ultrasound technician brought out the worst in you boys. You two would not cooperate. You both were being stubborn. It was embarrassing! I cannot take you two anywhere. That is why I am making your momma carry you around right now. In any case, I blame it on the ultrasound lady. She was pushing on you guys and all sorts of stuff. I am not sure that I would have cooperated if it was me. You guys didn't take her pushiness well. You both fought back.
Boston, you hid and refused to take pictures. Just so you know, you are already like your old man. Whenever your mom wants to take pictures, I always hide too. Braxton, you would kick your brother over and over again. You two boys are pickin' on each other already. When it was Braxton's turn for pictures, suddenly, Boston wanted to be involved. Boston kept sticking his head, arm, and feet into Braxton's pictures. Braxton would promptly responded with force and proceed to kicking Boston. It turned into WrestleMania in the uterus. It was pretty amazing to watch.

Tears of pride filled my eyes as I watched my boys go at it for a good twenty minutes while the tech attempted to get the measurements she needed. I am usually not appreciative of misbehaving, but in those moments, I couldn't help but smile a grin that went from ear to ear.
Your twin doctor, Dr. Huang, was very impressed and happy with your progress. At this point, everything is looking very good for twins. You guys are developing nicely. Your kidneys, your hearts, and all your other bits and pieces...including your bits and pieces...are growing as they should. Your daddy is very proud! I sat in the dark room, tears streaming from my eyes (It was really dusty in there. Dang allergies), as I looked proudly at you two kicking inside your mommy's belly. In that moment, I couldn't help but be thankful for my life and all the things I have been given. You boys are already changing my life and making me want to a better person.
Thank you so much for that. It is truly a blessing. I love you boys very much. I feel so blessed to have two healthy boys at this point in time. If we can get another 15 weeks, we should be in good shape. Your mommy is a trooper and she is doing a wonderful job. She is tough and stays positive even though she is getting uncomfortable. I love and appreciate her very much.
Love you guys!
Love,
Dad

Be Prayerful...

Dear Sons,

One of the most powerful things in life can be a prayer. A prayer to our Heavenly Father can help achieve miracles. A prayer by a humble spirit can be an instrument in God's hands. His almighty power can fill a room in an instant. Prayer is an amazing gift. The ability to drop to ones knees and humble himself/herself before God and speak to the Lord is incredible.

One of my favorite quotes is hanging in our living room. It is by one of my favorite presidents. It is about one of my favorite things of all time. It reads, "I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go". Abraham Lincoln uttered those beautiful words.

Prayer is a powerful tool if weilded by a humble heart. A blessing from my father, a prayer, helped save my life when I was younger. I am so grateful for a Father in Heaven that answers knee mail. I am so greateful for a Father on Earth that was humble, loving, and offered a pleading prayer on my behalf to our Father in Heaven. It saved my life more than once.
Be Prayerful.
You will not regret it.
Carry a prayer in your heart. Thank your Father in Heaven and His Son. Pray often and always.
I love you.
Love,
Dad

Be Humble...

Dear Boys,

Humility...what is it? Why is it necessary? How can it change us?

Humility is an amazing thing. It is very necessary, in this life, to learn and practice humility. The dictionary defines humility as "the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance". To me, humility is difficult to define. In the dictionary, humble is defined as "a feeling of insignificance". To me, there is much more to humility and being humble than the definitions imply. But, it is difficult to put into words. Humility begins and ends with you. You boys will do many GREAT things in your lives. You deserve credit for the great things you do. People will be proud of you and you will be proud of yourselves. And, you should be.

However, the second you let those achievements go to your head, you lose humility. Remember, you did not accomplish any of those things alone. You had help from somewhere. Always...always...thank your Heavenly Father for what you accomplish. Without Him and His Son, we would not be here. All things we accomplish are through Him. He gives us strength. He gave us life.
Remember those other people around you who helped you accomplish those things. Friends, family, teachers, teammates, etc. may have helped you be successful. Remember them.
Being humble and being grateful go hand in hand. You cannot accomplish one without the other. You need them both or you are failing at both. And, the second that you think you have completed being humble or grateful, you have failed.

The second you think you have humility under control, you have lost it. It is a life long work that will never be completed.
Think you don't need humility?
THINK AGAIN!!!
Even the greatest of all, our Savior, the Only Begotten Son, the creator of our world, the Son of God, JESUS CHRIST humbled himself. As a matter of fact, the greatest of us all showed more humility in his short life than the rest of humanity combined will ever show.
From the beginning, in Heaven, Jesus humbled himself before our Father in Heaven. When he presented his plan to the Father, he humbled himself by giving all the glory to the Father. In his purpose, he humbled himself by offering to come to Earth as a sacrificial lamb, offering to pay for all our sins (John 1:29). And, that was just the beginning of his displays of humility.
The Son of God, the Almighty, the Savior of the world would come to us in a lowly manger. No trumpets. No songs of praise. No fanfare. Only a few who believed came to visit. Shepherds in the fields and three wise men made the trip to be with the King of Kings. And, throughout his life, he would continue to be humble. He lived a humble life. He was not a wealthy man, although he could have been had he wanted. He lived with virtually no possessions and often depended on others for food, drink, and clothing.
The greatest of us all lived day by day, serving others, when people were the ones that should have been serving him. He never complained. He simply showed love. No greater example of humility has the world ever known. On the night before he was to suffer for all our sins in the garden, at his Last Supper, the Savior displayed humility again. He knew what was to come. He knew he was going to suffer extreme pain in the garden. He knew that his tormentors would come for him there. He knew the one of his own would betray him. He knew that the ones that he loved would crucify him although he had done no wrong. He knew they would mock him, spit on him, beat him, curse him, laugh at him, humilate him, and eventually take his life on the cross. Still, with all that in mind, he took the time to humble himself and serve the brethren that he loved so dearly.
Just prior to indescribable pain, suffering, torture, and death were about to occur, Jesus showed love. He lowered himself to the floor, and one by one, he washed the feet of his disciples. The thought of that act brings tears to my eyes right now. He was going to suffer and die for each of them (and us) in the coming day, yet he did not think of himself. He only thought of them and the love and lessons he could share(John 13:1-17).

His never ending humility graces us still as he forgives us for the countless mistakes we make. He never leaves us. He never stops believing in us. He never stops loving us.
Be Humble.
You will not regret it.
I love you. I am humbled by the thought that my Savior would die for me. I am humbled by the forgiveness he eagerly gives me. I am humbled by his gift of life, love, and death for me. And, I am humbled that His Father would send me two amazing spirits to call my sons. How humbled I am. As tears fill my eyes, my humility grows. And, I cannot imagine how humbling it will be to see you two come into this world and hold each of you in my arms.
I love you.
Love,
Dad

Be Clean and Be True...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

This world is a wonderful place. It is full of beautiful things that God has created for us to enjoy. God placed us on his beautiful Earth. He gave us bodies. He gave us life. And, he gave us this world to call our "home". With all these gifts, he also gave us free agency. He gave each of us the ability to make our own choices. We knew we would may mistakes, and he planned for that. We have ways to fix those mistakes. It isn't always easy, but it is possible.

With just under 7 BILLION people living on the Earth, the world has changed so much in a short time. While the world is a beautiful place, there are many out there that defile. There is a lot of filth out there that can ruin in your lives. As you get older, you will understand just what I mean. It is important for you boys to stay clean. As you grow, you will learn right from wrong. You will have your agency and, at times, you will be tempted to make the wrong choices. In those times, I would urge you to think of your loving mother. If you are like me, you never want to disappoint your mother. If you always think of her when you are tempted to do wrong, I am sure you will make the right chose and refrain from temptation. It is not always easy. You will be tempted on a daily basis. Be strong. Remain close to your family, your Savior, and your Heavenly Father. They will help you make the right decision.

Be Clean.

You will not regret it.

As you get older and go to school, the temptation and peer pressure will grow. People will try to tempt you to cheat in school, partake of alcohol and drugs, use profane language, and lie. I urge you to find friends that will be a positive influence in your life. If you have good, strong friends that share your convictions, things will be easier. Temptation will still arise, but it will be easier to withstand if you hold each other accountable.

Be True.

One of the most famous lines ever written states, "To thine own self be true...". One of the most prolific and talented man to ever grace this Earth wrote that. His name was William Shakespeare. It is so important to be true to yourself. Know who you are, what you stand for...and stick to it. Sometimes, it may be difficult or uncomfortable, but be true to yourself.

One of my favorite movies is called "Renaissance Man". And, in this movie, they focus on being true to yourself. Whenever I think about being true or hear Shakespeare's quote, I am reminded of the scene below. It is a good lesson and a good laugh.

"This above all to thine own self be true." In this movie, a group of misfit soldiers eventually learns to be true to each other and themselves.

Be True. You will not regret it.

I remember in high school facing a lot of peer pressure from friends that I played sports with. They often would want me to go "party" with them. I knew at these parties there was often alcohol and drugs. While I never had a desire to partake of these things and felt like I would refrain if I attended the party with them; I always chose to just simply not go. Throughout high school, I can honestly say that I was invited to hundreds of parties...and...I never attended one that I knew would have alcohol. I was the captain of three sports teams, won multiple state championships, was in student council, National Honor Society, and Letterman's Club. I was on the Homecoming Court my sophomore and senior years. I was the Homecoming King.

I tell you this not to boast. I tell you this to show you that you can be successful, semi-popular, and have good friends and still stick to your beliefs. I never attended a party with alcohol. I went to a couple parties thrown by friends and left immediately upon the serving of alcohol. It was something that I didn't want to be a part of. That was a conviction that I stuck firmly to. I am PROUD to say to this day...I have never partook of alcohol, tobacco, or any drugs. I still had plenty of friends. I was still popular at school. I always had something to do on Friday night. I wasn't sitting at home with my head buried in A Book of Mormon every Friday night. Although, sometimes, I wish it was. There is nothing wrong with having your head buried in A Book of Mormon on Friday night either. It is a good thing. But, it is also a good thing to make friends, grow relationships, and stay strong.

One of my favorite musical artists is Ziggy Marley. He wrote and sung a song titled, "True to Myself".

Follow his words. Be true to yourself. If you don't "it keeps killing you little by little". So, stay true. People will respect you for it. And, you will never regret it.

And, while you are at it, you will make everyone proud. You will make your mom proud. And, you will most definitely make your dad proud.

Be clean and be true. I love you!

Love,
Dad

Be Smart...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

You boys will have special opportunities throughout your lifetime. Yesterday, I wrote about America and how special it is that we live here. We are extremely blessed to live in this country. In your life, you will be able to go to school and receive a wonderful education. There are kids all over the world who will never get that blessing. It is one you should always cherish.

Your mommy and I were lucky enough to be able to receive a free education. After we graduated from high school with honors, we were able to attend college. Your dad was able to graduate from college with honors from UNLV. What a blessing it is to have an education.

Growing up, Papi always stressed education. He wanted to make sure I always learned as much as I could. He would push me to work hard, get good grades, and be the best that I could be. Nanie and him were always there to help me when I needed it. I am very blessed to have two special parents who believed in me. You two will be very blessed to have parents that believe in you. Parents that want you to succeed. Parents that will help you succeed anyway they can.

Be Smart!

Work hard in school. Learn something new everyday. Cherish the education you are given. And, in the end, remember how important school is. An education brings wisdom. That wisdom will help you support your family when you have one of your own. Education will present you with opportunities. Education pays. It has helped your mom and me. It will help you.

I love you boys. I cannot wait until you are here.

Love,

Dad

Be Grateful...

Dear Boston and Braxton,

I have been uniquely blessed. I was born to a wonderful family who shares unconditional love. You boys are also going to be blessed to a family full of love and compassion. I was lucky enough to be born in America, a land to cherish. You boys will also be lucky enough to be born in America. I was lucky enough to be born into a family with parents who busted their butts everyday to make sure I had a roof over my head, food in my belly, clothes on my back, and anything else I needed. You boys will also be born to such a family. Your mother and I work very hard to make sure our little family has everything it needs and everything we are going to need. At times, it may be difficult. At times, it is hard. At times, we may struggle.

BUT...remember to ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL for what you have. When I was growing up, my mom and dad (Nanie and Papi) always taught me to be grateful for the blessings in our lives. They taught me to appreciate the little things. They taught me to be grateful for what we had/have. If I can pass one lesson onto you boys, that might be it. Always be thankful for what you have. Don't be envious of what you don't. Remember that people work hard for the things that they have. Also, remember that we have been blessed to live in a place where we can have these things.

One thing that always disappoints your Papi is when people are ungrateful. Remember to be thankful for everything you have. Be thankful for those people in your life. Be thankful for the food on your plate. Be thankful for the clothes on your back. Be thankful for the roof over your head. Be thankful for the cars your parents drive. Be thankful for love. Be thankful for compassion. Be grateful for life, health, and the gifts from your Heavenly Father.

There are plenty of children suffering. They are cold. They are hungry. They are alone. I am sitting here with tears in my eyes as I look at videos of children suffering all over the world. I couldn't bring myself to post pictures of their suffering here, but they are suffering (Suffering Children). And, it is very sad. It is even more sad when we complain about the things that we have.

Be understanding! Be patient! Be charitable!

In this life, you can make a huge impact on people around you. A simple smile...a small greeting...a little gift...a kind word...each can change a person's day. Each can make a person smile. Each could save a life. Remember, you never know what someone else is going through.

These days, I read Facebook updates full of people who are angry and complaining. They are upset about America. Well, America is still the most free and special place on Earth. Don't forget that. We have amazing men and women who have sacrificed and continue to sacrifice so much. Remember them. Remember what they stand for and what they fought for. Do not forget them EVER. If you ever see a soldier, thank them. They have helped give me so much. Because of them, I can write this blog. Because of them, I can speak my mind. Because of them, I can go to work. Because of them, I speak English. Because of them, I can choose what I want for lunch. Because of them, I can own a home. Because of them, I AM FREE!

Do not complain because you have a job. Do not complain because you can receive a free education. Do not complain because you have the right to go to school. Do not complain because some people are not as lucky or as blessed as you.

Your mother and I have worked very hard to own a home. We have worked very hard so that we could have good jobs. We have worked hard for everything that we have. BUT, we have also been VERY blessed. Some people are not as blessed as we are. Some people do not come from supportive homes. Some people are not given the same opportunities as we are. It doesn't mean that they are not trying their best. I was blessed to know a friend, who helped me get an interview for a great job. I worked hard to deserve the interview. And, I worked hard and continue to work hard everyday since I was hired. But, without that blessing, I may be in a different boat. Who knows?! I have met plenty of people who try very hard but are stuggling. They do not have the resources to help them. Earlier this week, a friend posted on Facebook complaining about a woman who was struggling and on welfare. She proceeded to talk about how she works full-time and goes to school, etc. I felt this was wrong. She doesn't know what the other woman has been through. The other woman may work a minimum wage job or two to get by. She may be doing this while taking care of her children because their dad ran out. Moral of the story...WE DON'T KNOW...so DON'T JUDGE.

Be giving! Remember, our Lord, our Savior, Jesus Christ...didn't judge anyone. He forgave EVERYONE. He LOVED everyone. He would help anyone. We need to be CHRISTLIKE. We need to share what we can with others. Those who are less fortunate, those who struggle, those who are not as blessed as us...need help. Would we help Christ if he was in that situation? Remember...Jesus said, "whatever you did to the least of these, you did unto me".

Be a light! Give, thank, and love.

Jesus asked us to love one another. He suffered. He died. For all of US!
We have the same picture as the one above hanging in our hallway. It has been my favorite picture for years. When I was growing up, it hanging in the hallway by my bedroom. It always reminds me how much my Elder Brother suffered for me. The tears show his pain. He eyes full of worry for us. And, the crown of thorns represent his suffering. He sacrificed so much for us. We need to strive to be the people he expects us to be. I strive everyday to be the man he knows I can be. I need to give more. I need to thank more. I need to love more. I need to be better about being GRATEFUL for the blessings in my life.

Sorry for the rant. Gratitude is very important to me. And, this was probably more for me than anyone else. We are so blessed to live in America. We are so blessed to have a great family. We are blessed with everything we need. We need to remember who is ultimately responsible for our good fortune and strive to be deserving of it. Give, love, and be grateful.
I love you boys very much. I am grateful for you.

Love,
Dad

PS: Below are three of my favorite videos. One...of music video which shows how a little can go a long way. Two...a music video of soldiers who suffered for us. Three...a video of our Lord and Savior.

"World on Fire" by Sarah McLachlan


"Still in the Fight" by Mike Corrado


"His Hands" by Mike Garner (Kenneth Cope)

Love of my Life...

Yesterday was Valentine's Day or as your mother calls it "Love Day". For this day, I just wanted to take a moment to tell you boys how much I love your mother. She is the love of my life. She makes me complete. She is my heart and soul. Without here, I am not sure what I would do. She makes me smile, she makes me laugh, she makes me happy! She has changed my life.
I strive everyday to deserve the love she gives me. And, while I feel like I always come up short of deserving her, I will never stop trying to deserve the love she gives me. I will forever be indebted to her. I love her with all my heart and soul. And, I thank God for sending me an angel.
I want you boys to know how special your mother is. Always treat her with the love and respect she deserves. She brought you into this world and she can take you out. Love her, respect her, cherish her, help her, and make her proud.
Everyday...
I try to make her smile.
I try to make her laugh.
I try to make her feel special.
I try to make her feel loved.
I try to let her know she is the best thing that has ever happened to me.
I try to deserve her love and companionship.
I try to let her know that I am the luckiest man alive.
I let her know I love her very much...more than life itself.
"You are my love
You are my life
My heart and soul
The truest friend I've ever known
You are my world"
- Jimmy Wayne
I love your mom! And, I love you boys. And, I cannot wait for all of us to be together.

Love,
Dad

Time to See the Doc...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Today, you guys went to see the peri-doctor. Mommy was super excited because she got to see you boys again today. Unfortunately, daddy couldn't get off work today to come to the appointment with mommy. Your dad just got a promotion, so he is in the middle of working two jobs. I am training my replacement, as well as being trained on my new job. This made for a very busy week, so I was unable to bring your mommy to see the doctor.

Luckily, your Aunt Alexis was more than willing to accompany your mommy to her appointment. As a matter of fact, I think Alexis would have been willing to push me down the stairs, hit my with her car, or locked me in the closet to make sure she was able to go to the ultrasound. She wanted to see you guys in action.

You boys were lucky enough to be accompanied to the doctor by two beautiful women. I am sure that won't be the last time it happens. But, as your get older, make sure you aren't always being accompanied by your mom and aunt.

We are lucky to have Alexis living with us. She and your mommy are so close. They are best friends. They love to joke around, tell ridiculous jokes, laugh at nothing, and dance around like crazy women. It is kind of funny and disturbing to observe. They leave each other very much and would do anything for one another.
Dr. Huang looked over you fine young gentlemen, and he was impressed. You boys are growing well and the proper amount of fluids are in your sacs. It is awesome that you boys are healthy thus far. Twins are scary when it comes to health, so they are keeping a great eye on you boys. They take your pictures all the time.


You guys always look good, so you probably don't mind the pictures. I love you guys very much. I am counting down the days until you boys will arrive.

Love,
Daddy

Home Sweet Home...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Dudes...sometimes, you just can't wait to be HOME!

HOME SWEET HOME!

It is important to make your home a place you want to be. Your mommy works VERY hard and does an amazing job creating a place of beauty, warmth, and love. I cannot wait to come after a long day at work or even after an awesome vacation.

It is always good to be home! Mommy and I (mostly mommy) have been working tirelessly to get your guys room ready for your arrival. We know we have some time, but we want it to be just right for you guys.

In the past couple weeks, we added a glider for us to rock you guys in. Daddy surprised mommy with it. We added two mini cribs and a changing table. Mema and Tutu surprised mommy and daddy by getting you fellas cribs and a changing table. Tutu even put them together while Mema supervised, studied, and didn't stop talking about you boys. What a blessing it was to have their assistance with your room. Thank you so much Mema and Tutu! We couldn't have done it without you. We also added a side table and a couple pictures from Winnie the Pooh. Grandpa Parker was thinking of you guys and purchased us a wonderful, whimsical side table with a cabinet and a drawer with star and moon cut outs. I need to paint it, but other than that, it is perfect! He also brought you guys two incredible Winnie the Pooh pictures in frames. Each picture contains bumble bees, just like your room. We are going to hang them on the wall soon! Thanks Grandpa Parker for the awesome gifts. They are perfect for the room.

Check out your digs:

This will be Home Sweet Home.

It is full of love. Your mommy is working so hard to make it perfect. And, as soon as you fellas are in it...it will be!

Love you boys!

Love,
Dad

Beauty Is Everywhere...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

This weekend, I was able to spend some time out in our beautiful world. I was able to walk around and think. And, as I did, I was able to admire nature. God has given us some many beautiful gifts to enjoy. We just have to take the time to SLOW down and appreciate the world around us. God has painstakingly worked on every little detail to make his world beautiful and unique. Beauty can be found in a blade of grass, a caterpillar, a rock, a tree, etc. If one looks, beauty is everywhere.

George Washington Carver once said, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in."

Tune into the beauty of nature:

This weekend, I admired nature and was able to snap those pictures.

Just remember to slow down a little and enjoy the world around you. It is a gift from your Heavenly Father. He wants you to enjoy and appreciate it.

And, like Alice Walker says, "I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it."

I love you boys.

Love,
Daddy

Great Times With Even Better Friends...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

As you boys grow up, you will be blessed with friends that make a huge impact in your life. Those friends will bring a smile to your face. They will warm your heart. They will bring you happiness that will change your life. And, they will help make memories that will last a lifetime.

Growing up, I was blessed with great friends. And, as I have gotten old, I have been blessed with even more wonderful, caring, and awesome people in my life.

Eleanor Roosevelt inspired millions and left us with one of the greatest quotes ever. She said, "Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart".

Throughout time, you will realize who those true friends are and you will be so happy that they are in your lives. They are the friends that will always be there for you. They will answer your phone call at 2 a.m. They will be a shoulder to cry on. They will be the voice that comforts, advises, and makes you laugh. And, as they are there for you, you will be there for them.

To my true friends...thank you for always being there for me. And, you know that I will always be there for you.

This weekend, we were lucky enough to spend time with some great friends. Our family has a cabin in Paragonah (thanks G-Ma and G-Pa Donnelly), and we love to spend time up there enjoying nature and each other's company. This weekend, we invited the Lawrence's and Erickson's to the cabin for a weekend getaway and what a great time with had. Great times with even better friends...

Boys, in short...always cherish the friendships you are lucky enough to have. Nuture them! Make an effort to grow them into something special. If you do, you will never regret the great friends and memories you make.

I am so grateful for my friends. And, I am most grateful for my best friend...your mom. She makes me so happy. She makes me smile. She makes me feel loved. And, she makes me laugh. I could not ask for a better best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

I love you boys so much. I cannot wait to hold you guys. I am so happy that I am your daddy, and I cannot wait to be your friend!

Love,
Dad

"SOMETIMES PEOPLE COME INTO YOUR LIFE" Sometimes people come into your life and you know
right away that they were meant to be there, to serve
some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson, or to help
you figure out who you are or who you want to become.

You never know who these people may be - a roommate, a
neighbor, a professor, a friend, a lover, or even a
complete stranger - but when you lock eyes with them,
you know at that very moment they will affect your
life in some profound way.

Sometimes things happen to you that may seem horrible,
painful, and unfair at first, but in reflection you
find that without overcoming those obstacles you would
have never realized your potential, strength,
willpower, or heart.

Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness,
and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of
your soul. Without these small tests, whatever they
may be, life would be like a smoothly paved straight
flat road to nowhere. It would be safe and
comfortable, but dull and utterly pointless.

The people you meet who affect your life, and the
success and downfalls you experience, help to create
who you are and who you become. Even the bad
experiences can be learned from. In fact, they are
sometimes the most important ones.

If someone loves you, give love back to them in
whatever way you can, not only because they love you,
but because in a way, they are teaching you to love
and how to open your heart and eyes to things.

If someone hurts you, betrays you, or breaks your
heart, forgive them, for they have helped you learn
about trust and the importance of being cautious to
whom you open your heart.

Make every day count. Appreciate every moment and take
from those moments everything that you possibly can
for you may never be able to experience it again. Talk
to people that you have never talked to before, and
listen to what they have to say.

Let yourself fall in love, break free, and set your
sights high. Hold your head up because you have every
right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and
believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in
yourself, it will be hard for others to believe in
you.

You can make anything you wish of your life. Create
your own life and then go out and live it with
absolutely no regrets.

And if you love someone tell them, for you never know
what tomorrow may have in store.

Learn a lesson in life each day that you live! Today
is the tomorrow you were worried about yesterday. Was
it worth it?

Author Unknown

Another First...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Firsts usually don't happen so closely together, but when you are a dad of two awesome boys...they happen more quickly than one would expect. Just 24 hours after your mommy first felt you boys kicking, your daddy got to feel you guys giving your mommy's tummy a number of swift roundhouse kicks. UFC...watch out...my boys are already training with daily sparring sessions. Braxton tries to overpower you with a few hard kicks, and Boston tries to wear you down with an overwhelming number of small kicks. You boys are giving your mommy's ribs an extreme workout.

Today, your mommy also fed you boys some Dole Pineapple Whip Yogurt. Needless to say, you fellas were on a sugar high. This lead to you guys throwing a dance party in your mommy's belly. I am not sure who won the battle, because according to your mom, the dance party hasn't ended for days.

Keep up the UFC training and dance parties, but please...please try to let your mommy sleep at night. You guys are limited to UFC training and dance parties from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.!

The disco ball and octagon are closed after 9 p.m.!

I love you guys!

Love,
Dad

A First of Firsts...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Life is full of "firsts". First breaths, first giggles, first steps, first birthday, first words, first day of school, first report cards, first sporting event, first date, first kiss, first love, first heartbreak...and, the firsts don't end there. But, there must be a "first of firsts". This week, Mommy experienced you boys kicking for the first time. She felt you guys kicking over and over again. It was an amazing experience for her to feel her little boys moving around. She teared up as you boys kicked her over and over again. I am not sure if she was crying out of excitement, frustration, or pain. But, one thing was certain, you guys were giving her poor ribs a beating. I give you fellas permission to continue kicking her for the time being. But, once you are out of the womb, you better not EVER kick your mom or else you will have your good ole dad to deal with. But, for now, it is pretty exciting that you guys are beating your mommy's ribs.

This is a "first" that we will never forget. It is the "first" of many exciting events that will create cherished memories that we will never forget.

I love you boys so much, and I cannot wait for many more firsts!

Love,
Dad

Love, Gratitude, and Excitement...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Wow! I have wanted to write that for a long time now. My boys! My sons! The thought sends chills down my spine and I get goosebumps as I smile with excitement. Anytime I think of you boys, I cannot help but feel an incredible joy. I already feel so lucky to have you two boys to call my sons. On occasion, you boys will be my "Sons of Anarchy". I told mommy that she should put that on the door to your room. When you guys are two, she will agree with me on the anarchy part and may consider branding your door with that moniker. I cannot wait for you boys to bring some chaos to my life. I just hope I can bring some smiles to yours because I know you will be bringing plenty to mine!

The excitement surrounding you two is amazing. We have friends and family constantly telling us how excited they are for your arrival. Friends will call mommy and/or message her on Facebook to let her know they are thinking of her or ask her how she is doing. It is so awesome to have good friends in this world. Family and friends will always be there for you. And, you should always be there for them!

And, when your wives (only one each...Mormons don't practice polygamy!) are pregnant, you will be blessed with friends and family who help you out in amazing ways. I hope you are as lucky as we are to have friends like we do.

You may have a friend who stays a few minutes late to help you carry a desk made from stone (or so it seemed) down forty flights of stairs without stopping (or so it seemed). Thanks Jonas!

Or, you may have some friends that call to let you know about the latest deals at Babies 'R Us to save you some money. And, they may even offer to give you some old baby stuff that you can trade in for 25% off new items you need. They will do this even though they could sell it to make some money for themselves. But, they are great people so they think of you and your family. Thanks Angie and Jeff!

You may have some friends that call you to let you know that they have bags of new baby clothes for you that can make your life a little easier. Thanks Jessica and Lara!

You may have friends that check up on your wife often to make sure she is doing well. They bring a smile and some much needed comfort to her face. Thanks Sam, Brittney, Kayla, and Bre!

You may have an old family friend that checks in with your wife to make sure someone is throwing her a shower. Thanks Samantha!

You may have a friend that is willing to offer advice at anytime and willing to call her mother who is a delivery nurse just to ease your mind. And, she may provide you with books and wisdom on her experience which is truly priceless. Thanks Steph!

You WILL have other family members that will help you any way they can. They will offer advice, help with necessary items for your upcoming bundles of joy, and just plain spoil your unborn child/children. Thanks Papi, Nanie, Mema, Tutu, Ash, Riss, and Lex!

And, anyone that I may have forgotten, please know just how grateful I am for your love and support.

I want to thank all of you with all my heart. It brings tears to my eyes to know my wife and I have such wonderful friends and family who love and care for us and our boys. You boys are so lucky to have these inspiring people eagerly awaiting your arrival.

Oh, and lastly, hopefully one of your wives (again, you each only get one...they are expensive, so you will only want one!) will have an awesome co-worker and friend that buys your child/children one of the most spectacularly nifty (yes, I wrote nifty) bibs to ever grace this Earth. What a perfect gift! Thanks Dolores!

She also provided us with a few boxes of diapers, so we can cover your little bums when you get here. Again, what a selfless act of kindness.

I cannot express in words all the gratitude in my heart at this time. I am thankful to my Heavenly Father for blessing me with two of his precious children. I am thankful to my beautiful, strong, and loving wife for carrying our boys. I am thankful to family and friends for all their love and support. I am just thankful!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Well boys, your room is coming along. For your infancy, you will be sounded by a bright yellow and bumble bees watching over you. Nice ones. Your mommy is so excited about your room and she has been working so hard on it. She is doing a wonderful job. And, to help, your Aunt Ash got a beehive to go in your room. Your Aunt Ash is so excited for the two of you to get her so you boys can play with your cousin Raiden!

Your mommy hand made your mobiles for your cribs because she wanted them to be special. She worked so hard on them and they are made with a lot of love.

Both your mommy and your daddy have been working hard on your ABC wall. It is beginning to come together. I, personally, think your dad's idea of a Man Cave clock for the "O" is the best.

We will finish the remainder of the alphabet in the next couple weeks, and your old man has some great ideas for some other letters. Just wait until you see the "X"!

Your mommy also finished her special shelves. The bottom shelf has two bumble bees watching over you. I always joke that they are your mommy and me. The bees are looking at an ultrasound picture of you boys. On the top shelf, mommy's favorite book "Love You Forever" sits. This book is very special to your mommy. Her mommy, your Mema, used to read it to her and her sisters. And, mommy and I will read it to you guys! It is a special book for our little family.

The room gets closer and closer to being ready for your arrival everyday. It is a room full of love. Your mommy has put a lot of work into it because she loves you boys so much. I can never tell you guys enough how special she is, how much I love her, and how lucky we are to have her. We outnumber her 3 to 1, so we will have to SUPER nice to her at all times! She deserves it.

Your mommy is now 18 weeks pregnant with the two of you. She is growing bigger everyday because you boys are going bigger everyday. Still, everyday she gets more and more beautiful.

She is about half way there since there are two of you. Lets all pray that the next 18 weeks go as smoothly as the first. Boston Jammer and Braxton Parker...I cannot wait to have you in my arms. I feel like the most lucky husband and father in the world already!

I love you boys very much! I love your mommy very much! And, I always will! My love grows everyday!

Love Daddy