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Dear Nathan,

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As Nathan just turned one, it was suggested that I write him a letter, to be read, well, later when he can actually read.  Since, 1. I don't actually write and 2.  I would lose it, if I actually put pen to paper, I thought I would just write it here so it would be easy to find later and show Nathan.

Dear Nathan,

   You are now one whole year old, it has been a great year.  You have grown so much in such a little time. You started as just a tiny little guy, and quickly exploded to the biggest 3 month old I have ever seen.  (seriously, you were huge)  Luckily you are now just perfect.  It has been so wonderful to watch you grow and learn.  Your curiosity inspires me, there is so much for you to learn, and you attack life with such energy until that is you collapse, sleep, recharge and do it all over again.
   Your mom and I recently took a parenting class.  Since you are so young and currently the perfect child, as of yet, we have had little experience having to discipline you or tell you no.  In this class we heard many stories of conflict between parents and their children.  Stories of yelling, of conflict, of long-term disagreement and even shouting.  The day will come that we have to discipline you or that the you will disagree with decisions that are made.  One day we may even raise our voices toward each other and we may even say things we don't really mean.
   Despite this inevitability, I want you to know that everything I do and every decision I make I will do my best to make with your best interest in mind.  I love you and only want the best for you and our family.  Someday we will disagree, but know that whatever that disagreement I still love you.  There is nothing you or I could do that would stop me from loving you.  You are our "Sweet boy."
   You can do anything you want in this life.  The future is yours.  Your mom and I want you to be happy, successful, and of course to know love.  We will do our best to model that love and hope you too will grow up to know Christ and His love.  We will support you in all your endeavors.  Just be sure that one of those involves the University of Washington.

I love you, Happy first birthday!

Your Dad.
 

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