"Hapee Daddy Day!"

I'll never forget the tears in Joe's eyes when he first saw me prepped for unexpected surgery, the first words he said when he caught a glimpse of Hope, the first time I watched him hold her close, or the first silly song he spontaneously made up to sing her to sleep. Since then there have been many wonderful and challenging and amazing moments. So from one Father's Day- a little breakfast in bed (a treat he gives me, especially while pregnant, many Saturday mornings-- hey, I have to brag a bit; it is a special day!)...
To this Father's Day- a little breakfast in bed plus some finally inspiring workspace in the house for him to continue making differences in every way- we are so blessed. Even though Hope was still half napping in the last three, she managed her "TA-DAH!" like we practiced. Can't imagine this journey without you Daddy and Sweetheart of Mine!



Just like on Mama's Day, though, there are so many men out there we want to remember. Grandpa and PopPop, for starters, where would we be without your sacrifices, your courage, your strength, your ability to fix just about anything?
And so many other men of integrity, character, and wisdom... stepping up to the plate by filling the lives of children and others with light and love! Today we celebrate you... grandpas who have gone on to Heaven, brothers, uncles, friends, dads of friends, cousins, pastors, teachers, coaches, mentors, and even those we've never had the honor to actually meet. This world needs you to keep making your differences so badly... in every way too. We also remember you for whom this day is hard because of the men you miss or the circumstances that you face... know we are holding you extra close in heart!
**********************
After some pretty typical at this point, but suspicious, symptoms we are wondering just how long it will be until Baby Martins makes his/her arrival! Remembering that Hope was three weeks early gives us a little extra cause to pay attention. Chances are we'll make it to our due date; then again, chances are we might not. Just in case, since the Hightowers are out of town, Nana is on her way even as I type to stay the week. We'll likely not get to post during this time but for fun we thought we'd piggyback off our dear friends, the Forsters, and leave a little poll. Look to the right and cast your vote! :)