Cousins At Christmas...

Dear Boys,

 

We are pretty lucky that everyone lives so close to us. Holidays are sometimes so chaotic because we have so much family to visit in such a short amount of time. But, the nice part of that is that you guys get to see your cousins often. Kennedy and Shane live just over the hill and Raiden lives in Utah. This makes it possible for all of you guys to spend time together and for us to snag some great pictures like these ones...

It is a lot of fun to have family so close. It is great to have your cousins around at Christmas.

I love you guys!

Love,
Dad

 

No Words...

Boys,

My heart is full.

We have been blessed and I am grateful.

I do not have the words to express my graditude to my Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ.

I am grateful for mommy and each of you.

I love you all so very much!

Life is good...

I love you.

Love your old man.

A Patting Approval...

Let me preface this post with the following:

I do NOT care what your political views are. I do NOT care which candidates you support. I do NOT care if you like Romney or Obama or any other politician. That is not what this is about. That discussion is better suited for a different time and place. So, please keep all political comments off of the blog. Thank you!

**************************************

Dear Dudes,

Today was a good day! Even though both of you woke up on the wrong side of the crib, it was still a good day. And, that happens on occasion. I wake up with bad hair days all the time, so I know how you guys feel.

After some suds, we dressed you boys in some sweet Sunday onesies, shorts, and the finest Sunday kicks this side of the Mississippi. After getting dressed, Boston was still pretty cranky and went back to sleep. So, for today's purposes, Braxton will be modeling the new Sunday look.

It's GQ time...

From the birdie tie...

To the kicks...

The kicks are so awesome that they make the picture blurry. As the youngsters would say, "You guys were lookin' FRESH."

Church was great. For the first time, Braxton, you went up to the pulpit to bare your testimony with me. We talked about how we were both bald and chunky. We also told every one how Heavenly Father has a sense of humor, and that we love that about the man upstairs.

And, Boston, you went up with Mommy. Mommy and you talked about prayer and how important it is to you. You guys talked about the love of a family, and Mommy said she has 3 kids. Yeah, she considers me a kid.

While in the spotlight, both of you slept the entire time and neither of you farted in the direction of the microphone...so that was a relief.

Just like your Great Grandpa Imlay, you slept through sacrament and woke up when it was time for a snack.

While standing outside the door to Sunday School, I spotted some peculiar gentleman standing at opposite ends of the hallway. The both stood at attention, hands crossed at their waist. The both had a spacial pin on the lapel of their jackets. And, in their left ears, each of them had an ear piece. At first, I thought it was the security force that Nana had hired to make sure you boys were alright.

Seriously! You Nana is a little paranoid. But, at second glance, I knew exactly who they were. I had seen them before. They were with the Secret Service. The gentlemen standing guard in the hallway meant only one thing...the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Harry Reid was attending the Eldorado Valley Ward today. Senator Reid is one of the most powerful men in the United States government, and he works closely with President Obama.

Senator Reid has achieved a more senior elected position than any other Mormon in the history of the United States. Also, if he finishes his current term, he will be one of only six men in history to serve 6 years as a Majority Leader. Those are significant accomplishments. Regardless of whether or not you like him as a politician, it is pretty neat to be within arm's reach of someone with that amount of power.

As I held you (Braxton) in the hallway, Senator Reid approached us. He told me that he appreciated my testimony. We awkwardly shook hands because I was holding a sleeping Braxton in my arms. He proceeded to ask how old you guys were and if you were both boys. I responded proudly that you guys were identical twin boys. With an approving smile, he softly patted you (Brax) on the head and said "You got a handsome fella there, keep up the good work". Then, he moved on to join his wife in Sunday School.

So, at just short of 8 weeks old, Braxton Parker Barrow received a patting approval from one of our higher ranking officials in the United States Government. I don't know if politics will be in your future Braxton, but you made an impression on Senator Reid.

How many 8 week old babies can say that?

It was a pretty cool experience.

But, while in Sunday School, it made for a little bit of an awkward situation. I was tasked with making Boston a bottle during class. Normally, it is no big deal, but when you are trying to be sneaky and mix mystery powder with a liquid in a small container...it can raise some eye brows. I have expected to be taken down by Reid's guards.  But, in the end, it turned out alright and Boston enjoyed his bottle just a row away from the Senator.

While in Sunday school, Braxton was talking up a storm. He was trying to answer questions and get any sort of attention that he could.

Happily, he spent the remainder of the class looking excitedly at the ceiling.

It was a pretty good day at church. Boston slept through most of it, so we didn't get many pictures of him. But, Braxton, for a portion of it, was wide awake and talking up a storm.

After church, we spent the day at Grampy and Grammy Imlay's house. You guys hung out with your Aunt Riss and your cousins too. We lounged around the house...talking, reading, and napping. It was great to just be around the family and enjoy each other's company. We had a good dinner cooked by Grammy and Riss did family home evening.

We were reminded that we have a lot to be grateful for. And, I am so grateful for the two of you and your mom. I am grateful for family and their love. And, I love spending some quiet, relaxing time together on Sunday.

And, that's what I love about Sundays!

I love that I get to spend the day with you boys. I love that I don't have to leave you for ten hours to go to work. I love that we can sit as a family in church. I love that we are a family. And, I love you.

Love,
Dad

My Life Began Today...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Today was the greatest day of my life. I never knew the extent of joy and love that I could feel until today. I never knew life could be so sweet. My life completely changed today. I witnessed Heaven on Earth. And, I saw God today.

This post will be a jumble of emotion that may not be well put together. I am riding on cloud nine, and I am not sure how to express it. I do not really have the words to express the happiness, love, and gratitude that I am feeling at this time.

Words will be hard to come by as I share today's events, but I will do my best. Let me start by saying, I love you guys so very much. I love you two and your mother more than I could ever imagine. And, hopefully, this labor of love will come across that way.

****************

I didn't sleep more than a couple winks. I found myself starring at the clock as it slowly ticked. Seconds seemed like minutes, minutes seemed like hours...

The clock showed 3:07 a.m. The time was moving far too slow. I felt like a kid waiting for Christmas morning. But, this time I knew the present was going to be the best one yet. Next to me, your beautiful mother had finally fallen asleep. She is so excited for today. And, in less than 2 hours, we will be preparing to leave for the hospital.

****************

We left for the hospital at 5:00 a.m. As we were driving in, I looked at your mom and asked her how she felt. She was overjoyed with excitement, but I could sense a tinge of nerves in her voice. We talked about how this was the LAST car ride that we would take with just the two of us for quite some time. For the foreseeable future, we will no longer be traveling with just the two of us. We talked about how on our next ride together there would be four of us in the car. It was a crazy thought.

When we arrived at the hospital, there was a nervous tension in the air. But, it was filled with excitement. The time had come. We had waited for this for so long, and it was finally here. As we sat in triage awaiting our instructions, we talked about how our lives were about to change. Your mother sat bravely awaiting her turn. She looked as beautiful as ever even though it was 5:50 in the morning.


Her smile today was the biggest I have ever seen. But, I bet each day you guys are here her smile will grow.

As the time came for mommy to be wheeled to the operating room approached, my heart began to pound. I was very excited, but I was also super nervous. I was worried about the safety of your mom. I was worried about the health of you two. It was about to be the most nerve racking and exciting day of my life.

It really hit me when the nurse told me to get ready to go and get dressed in my scrubs. For a few minutes, I got to pretend that I was Dr. Barrow. That's right...a real live doctor.

 

They wheeled your mom into the operating room, and I had to stand out in the hallway. They had to give your mom her epidural. To do this, the doctor has to stick a very large needle in her back. This is a spinal block that makes so she won't be able to feel the surgery she is going to have. I paced the hallway. As I did, all I could think was how all I cared about was that you boys and your mom were healthy. I have posted it before, but the song "All I Ask For Anymore" by Trace Adkins kept playing in my head.

 

I kept praying to our Heavenly Father that everything would go well. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity. When I went into the OR, tears filled my eyes as I say mommy laying on the table. I was nervous but excited at the same time. The time had finally come.

 

I sat next to your mom and spoke to her as they started her C-Section. I just talked to her about how much fun we were going to have with you guys. Before I knew it, the doctor told me to stand up. Now, anyone who knows your dad knows that I am a wimp when it comes to blood, needles, etc. Initially, when we found out mommy was pregnant, we weren't even sure if I would be able to be in the room for your birth. Anyways, I stood up and looked over the curtain just in time to see Braxton being pulled out of mommy's tummy.

 

Tears filled my eyes as I watched Braxton coming into the world. He was screaming and peeing everywhere. It was pretty awesome. I couldn't believe my first child was being born right before my eyes. As I watched Braxton in awe, I was tapped on the shoulder by the doctor. In an instant Boston was being pulled out, just a minute behind his brother. In less than two minutes, I had two sons. My boys were finally here.

 

 

I was able to cut both of your umbilical cords. And, the nurses finished cleaning you guys off. You were both screaming uncontrollable. The nurses moved you guys close together so we could take a picture. As you two were placed close to each other, Braxton reached up and grabbed Boston's hand. As he did, you both stopped crying and a peaceful aura filled the room. Tears filled every one's eyes and nurses went crazy as the silent room was in awe.

It was a moment that I will never forget. For everyone in that room, it was a moment for a lifetime. Two babies...fresh from heaven...peaceful holding hands.

We be sideways...

Then, one by one...each of you were brought to the side of your amazing, beautiful mother.

 

First was Braxton. I watched as your mommy's eyes filled with tears and she shared the biggest smile that I have ever seen,

Then, Boston was placed by her side. And, her tear filled eyes showed more happiness than I have ever seen. She had her two boys! Finally!

And, with that, I was whisked out of the room with my boys. I gave mommy a kiss, told her how amazing she ism and that I loved her...then I was off with our new bundles of joy.

 

Braxton, Boston, and I were moved to the wellness center where a nurse and I measured you guys. It was an awesome experience.

 

Braxton was born at 7:43 a.m.. You weighed 6 pounds, 15.5 ounces and were 19 inches long. You were a healthy baby. Incredible!

Boston was born at 7:44 a.m.. You weighed 5 pounds, 10.5 ounces and were 17 inches long. While a little smaller, Boston...you too were healthy.

 

We finally had our family. Two happy healthy boys that we had waited so long for.

 

We feel so blessed to have the two of you in our lives. It is incredible to know that Heavenly Father sent us two of his most precious angels. It is amazing to think that we have been entrusted with such wonderful responsibility. And, we cannot wait for the journey to begin.

Your mother has done an amazing job. I am indebted to her once again for the joy that she has brought to my life. She has sacrificed so much for all of us. She has given us our family.

 

She is the toughest, most beautiful, and amazing woman that I have ever had the privilege of knowing.

 

I love her with all my heart and we are all lucky to have here.

 

I have no words for the love and joy that I felt in those moments. It is a joy that one must feel on their own to truly know what I am talking about. Now, I know what my dad felt when I was born and the joy he felt. And, one day, I hope you experience the same joy as a son or daughter is born to you.

 

A man doesn't really know joy until he witnesses the birth of his own children. As of today at 7:44 a.m., I know what true love, amazing happiness, and pure gratitude is. As of 7:44 a.m., my life truly began. And, I wouldn't have it any other way.

 

I cannot wait to be your dad. I cannot wait to see you with your mom. I cannot wait to watch you two grow into the amazing men I know you will become.

 

My life began today...

 

Love,

Dad

Special Sunday...

Dear Boston & Braxton,

Today is a very special day. Every year, on a day in April, we take some extra time to remember our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We should always remember Jesus and everything that he has done for us. But, on a Sunday in April, we take some extra time to remember him the way we always should. Easter is such a special time.

Jesus came to this world in humble circumstance. He was born in a manger, in a stable. He was born to humble, amazing parents specificially chosen by our Heavenly Father. He was not greeted like the King that he was. He dedicated his life to serving and loving others. He walked this Earth and shared his teachings with millions. He didn't live like a Prince. He lived humbly. He lived to teach others. He spent his time on Earth doing the work of his Father. He came to this Earth to share his light and show us the way we should go.

And, in the end, he suffered. He bled from every pore for us. He felt all our pains. He took upon him the sins of the world, so that we could return to live with him one day. He lived a perfect life. He was a shining example of what we could only hope to be. He was crucified by those that didn't understand. He was beaten, spit on, and forced to carry his own cross. He died for us. But, that was not the end. He would be resurrected and return to the right hand of our Father in Heaven. And, one day, if we live worthily, we will return to live with Him.

I love you boys!

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