Father's Day

It's funny sometimes how a news story can affect you. This past Friday, Tim Russert, a journalist who hosted Meet the Press on Sunday mornings, passed away unexpectedly of a heart-attack at the age of 58. Several years ago, Russert wrote a book about his father, with the purpose of letting his father know how he felt about him. In this book Russert also emphasized how important his own son, Luke, was to him. Russert's passing made me think about how short-lived our time on this earth can be. Every moment we are given is a moment to cherish. I sometimes get caught up in "planning," -- when in fact, the world can pass you by today when you are always planning for tomorrow. This is a lesson I want my sons to live by. Live each day like it is your last. Make sure each day is filled with love and laughter -- it keeps you young.

Yesterday was Father's Day. We had a relaxing day. We spent some time napping, hanging out at the pool, wrestling on the floor and watching Tiger Woods in the US Open. I am truly blessed with two beautiful boys. They fill me with love and make me laugh -- truly a recipe for happiness. I hope to be around a long time so I can watch them turn into young men... and perhaps see them become fathers too.

Evan and Owen have a Birthday!!

It is hard to believe that a year has flown by. It seems like they were just born yesterday -- I can still remember holding the boys in the NICU and feeding them through their nostrils. Wow, we have come a long way in one year.

Both boys are absolutely healthy and thriving. Owen displays so much personality and really works hard on his developmental skills. Evan is Mr. Even Tempered. I'll be surprised if he isn't walking in the next month. Both boys pull up on just about everything, but Owen still needs to work on his transitions and balance.

We know they both want to talk so bad but the words aren't there yet. Dad and Momma are the only 2 distinguishable words they speak. We are starting to get into head shaking to say Yes or No. They've got the No head movement down pat.

We had a Birthday Bash this past weekend. Highlights included: Owen eating a hamburger, Evan gagging on the sweet frosting, Owen relishing having cake all over himself, Evan relishing the bath he got (he seems to be a neat freak). We had family over for a cookout and cake. Those attending were Grandma Harless; Aunt Deanna and Uncle Max; Kelli and Jeremy; Aunt Cindy and Uncle Roy along with Marissa and Ryan; Nana Siever and Papa Siever. The boys were showered with love and presents -- we all had a good time.

Just some things to help me remember what they like to eat: they love pasta covered with tomato sauce, key lime yogurt, pears and bananas, green beans and biscuits and gravy.

I'd better go now -- as I start to reflect it makes me want to write a ton. All I can say is being a Dad is the best feeling!!