parenting

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Dear Jack: Your New Quarter Zip Pullover

15 years, 1 month.

Dear Jack,

I observed how over the past month or so, you have been curious about owning a quarter zip pullover. I definitely remember what it was like being a teenage boy, when my wardrobe was mostly just cool/weird t-shirts and baggy pants, but how I still had a couple collared shirts and one pair of chino pants for when I needed to wear something nice.

Last Friday night after work and school, we made our way to Scottsboro for a Publix and TJ Maxx run. The one thing you sought out while we were there was a quarter zip pullover; as I could tell you wanted another “nice” item to be able to wear.

Fate would have it, our family ended up on stage at church on Sunday, as our family was asked to light the advent candles. You got to debut your quarter zip pullover.

Our friends Mohamad and Lena also happened to drive over from Tennessee to visit us here in Alabama last weekend as well. When Mohamad took a photo of all of us together at our house, what did you decide to throw on?

Your quarter zip pullover.

 

Love,

Daddy

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Dear Holly: Your Lego Advent Calendar

9 years, 7 months.

Dear Holly,

Every morning this month after you have woken up, you have immediately checked your Lego Advent Calendar; to see what new Lego item you get to unlock for the day.

Saturday morning, I just happened to wake up earlier than usual and so did you. Therefore, I was able to witness you being able to carry out your December morning routine.

You were so happy to find a Lego dog with a wheelchair.

I am appreciating how the days leading up to Christmas are just as exciting as the actual holiday.

And I’m still just so happy we ourselves don’t have to travel anymore for Christmas!

 

Love,

Daddy

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Dear Jack: A Dad’s Letter to His Son on His 15th Birthday

15 years old!

Dear Jack,

It’s official. You’re 15 years old today. When we asked you what you wanted to do to celebrate, you chose for our family of 4 to spend a quick day trip to Nashville, hitting up all your favorite spots.

As for your “big” birthday gift, you carefully researched the best gaming chair for your “PlayStation 5 station” in your room. The chair is basically an actual car chair and is even equipped with a massager for your back.

Though I will say, you’re still not too old for Lego blocks, as you were very excited today to build the F1 racecar we got you, which you are now proudly displaying in your room.

Everytime it’s your birthday, I will always think back to that terrifying moment I held my firstborn child for the first time, as I thought, “How am I supposed to know what to do with this brand-new human life?”

Fifteen years in… So far, so good.

I love you, Jack.

Love,

Daddy

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Dear Jack: Serving as a Greeter at Church

14 years, 11 months.

Dear Jack,

This past Sunday was “Youth Sunday” at church, where the high school kids led the entire service. You were asked to serve as a greeter, as you were responsible for welcoming people at the front door and handing out the the programs to them as they entered.

I wasn’t sure what you would think of serving in that way. But afterwards, you confirmed that it went well and you enjoyed it.

This is something I figured would be out of your comfort zone. Fortunately, I was wrong.

I am proud of you for continuing to develop your social skills and that it actually was a good fit for you!

Love,

Daddy

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Dear Holly: Helping Manage the Trick-or-Treaters

9 years, 6 months.

Dear Holly,

This year was ultimately the first time we have ever been at our own home long enough during Halloween to actually tend to the trick-or-treaters, before we actually left the house to do our own trick-or-treating.

Not only did we have candy to give away, but thanks to Nonna, we had dozens of Ty beanie babies (still with the tags on them!) to give away to kids who came to our door.

It was truly heartwarming to see how grateful these kids of all ages were as they got to pick out the animal of their choice.

You did a great job helping Mommy!

 

Love,

Daddy