Like Daddy

These pictures were taken sometime last winter, maybe on Eliot's first day of Primary. Like so many things that fell through the cracks this past year, I blame the fact that they never got posted on my pregnancy ... and post pregnancy. But I LOVE these pictures. As much or more for what they represent as for just being plain old cute.

Eliot adores Grant. When Grant walks through the door at the end of the day, Eliot bubbles over with excitement. He usually greets Grant with an excited yell, and often drops whatever he's doing to run to greet him (that's a big deal, especially if he's mid TV show or playing with something very important).

Not only do I share Eliot's sentiments ... I adore Grant, too, and believe me, there's no happier sight than when he walks through the door at the end of the day, but I am so proud that my boys have such a great dad to look up to. As I navigate this tricky path of parenthood, I'm learning that Grant and I are far from saints. We're both pretty imperfect. So I'm not going to immortalize Grant as being the "BEST" dad or a "perfect" dad. I think he'd be the first to admit he's not. But he's the best and most perfect dad for our boys. He helps me remember to be kinder and more patient. His peacemaking skills have proven invaluable in diffusing tense parenting moments, and, I think what I appreciate most about Grant is that he sets such a good example for our kids. He's gentle, his language is squeaky clean (more than I can say ... parenthood and learning to drive a stick shift have been the two situations in my life that have brought out my swearing vice ... I'm working on that.), and most importantly, Grant loves and respects me and our children.

One of my favorite quotes that I keep tucked in the front of my scriptures is this from Elder Merrill C. Oaks: "One of the most important gifts we can give our children is the simple knowledge that their parents love each other." If my boys ever have the opportunity to read these words some day, I want them to be sure that I LOVE their father. I simply love Grant. He has seen me at my best and at my worst and continues to believe in me, love me, prize me, and support me. He makes me happy, he makes me laugh, he brings out the best in me. He never judges me or criticizes me. He is helpful and proactive in our home. He is fair with others and faithful in his devotion to the Lord. He is satisfied with simple things. He is grateful. He is a loyal brother, son, and friend. Boys, I love your daddy. More than I can say. And I know he loves me. For those reasons, I am proud that you sweet little boys show in so many ways -- by dressing up his shoes and jackets, by admiring smiles, by zealous desires to help with and copy whatever Dad does -- that you want to be just like your daddy.

And the best part is that you will be ... and maybe even a little better.