Kathy and I often will forego giving presents on Valentine's Days and Anniversaries and write each other letters instead. Probably because we are poor, but also because we feel like it gives us an opportunity to let each other know and read the things that sometimes go unsaid. So instead of a stuffed, singing monkey holding a heart, I am giving Kathy this letter. I realize that it may seem a little personal but I really wanted to share some of the things that I appreciate about Kathy with her friends and family that read this Blog. And maybe it will inspire you to write or letter or two yourself. I highly recommend it.
Dear Baby Mine #2,
Today is Valentine’s day and my birthday. About a year and a half ago I wrote a letter to your sister MaryKate while she was in the same place you are. I wanted to tell MaryKate some important things about your mother that she needed to know before she came out. I feel like I need to share some of the same things with you (to give you fair warning), and to remind your mom of somethings she forgets sometimes.
First you need to know that your mother is a very amazing person. She has a heart bigger than a cantaloupe, (by the way, you should know that your mother dislikes cantaloupe). She has the ability to love quickly...I imagine you will experience this trait as soon as you get here. Her love is so amazing that sometimes she will love you, even when you may not show love in return. Remember that she will always love you, even when you beg her to ride on Splash Mountain all day when we go to Disneyland and she really doesn’t want to go (you'll see). Though your mom's love is quick, it is strong and lasting. You'll be so grateful for that someday, I know I am.
Second you should know that your mom worries a lot. She has been worrying about you before you were born, before your mother and I were even married, she worried about you. She worries about your looks, your heart, your problems, your attitude, that Turkish terrorists will steal you, that you will bite when you breast feed, that you will be a boy and a girl, that you will be bossy. She worries that you are going to be too big or too small or have red hair (no offense if you do, she just has this thing with red hair). Your mom worries because of the first thing I told you about (because she loves you). Whenever she is worried there is one thing I suggest; give her a big hug and tell her you love her. I try to do that when she worries and most of the times it helps a little.
Third you should know that your mother is a very talented person. She can do most anything she puts her mind to and won't do anything she puts her mind against (with the exception of going to Deseret Industries, but you really have to plead). Just watch her go, she can do so much in so little time. She can sew a quilt for your sister, plan a party for your dad, make a present for her neighbor, plan service for someone who may be sad, and still have the energy to, kiss your dad when he comes home from school, workout early in the morning, listen to me talk and stay up late so she can spend more time with me (even when she is really tired) and do everything else a busy mom does. She has done a lot of hard things with you inside of her. I hope you were paying attention, it hasn't always been easy. I hope you are as grateful as I am.
Fourth you need to know how beautiful you mom is. This should go unexplained, but sometimes your mom has a hard time believing me when I tell her. Sometimes I just sit and look at her and think about how pretty she is. I hope you have her nose and eyes. I hope you have her laugh, her ears (because they are so fun). But most of all I hope you have the light in your eyes that she has. She sparkles. And I can attest that it is not only because she has you inside of her. She shines all the time and I can't get enough.
Last you should know how much I love your mom. This is important because I want you to try to love her more. You won't be able to, but I want you to try. I love your mom more every day, so I will at least have a couple of years on you. I love your mom because she is one hot momma. I love her because she loves the Lord. I love your mom because she gives. I love her because she loves me. I love your mom because she makes me laugh and cry. I love her because the thought of her makes me smile when I am driving in the car by myself. I love your mom because she isn't perfect and allows me to be imperfect too. I love her because she wants to be more. I love her because she hates to give up. I love her just because.
I love you sweet little thing. I've loved you for a long time. I can't wait to meet you. Be nice to your mom for me. okay?
Love you lots,
Dad
