I flew out of town this week for the first time since you were born. It used to be a common thing that I didn’t think much of, now however, it is a little harder to be away from home. I am in Boise Idaho- it is a really beautiful city set against the mountains and if your mother didn’t hate the cold so much I would be tempted to search for employment here!
                     You have been changing so much lately. You smile and make more noises, you seem to understand more of what is happening and you certainly make a lot more eye contact. I feel an almost forgotten longing in my heart when I said goodbye to you. It has been so long since I missed anyone so much, but kissing you goodbye at the airport was so tough on your dad, especially after we had been cuddling all morning long.
                      Often when I travel I take a little time that I wouldn’t have at home to wander off to some new area and relax and let my mind wander. Today I found a spot by the river that runs through Boise. I just sat and watched the current, the way the water moved over the rocks and the small pieces of ice that were drifting by. Other than staring at a campfire I don’t know of too many more things that are more relaxing.
                      When I slow down enough to let my thoughts catch up to me I realize that I am now a father- it may sound funny but sometimes the gravity of my new role escapes me and I lose focus on being a great man that you can look up to. I think back just 8 weeks ago to when you were born, to how I felt then and how I feel now. I think about your little face and sweet eyes and how good you smell. I laugh at the funny faces and noises you make and how someday all of this will seem so distant and clouded.
                     I am so happy for each moment with you. We have entered a new year, 2011. Standing at the dawn of a thing it is difficult to imagine what will come to pass before you see the next night. I think of you walking and talking and revealing your spirit more and more. I am excited, and a little sad to watch you grow up. Your mother and I have been blessed every year of our lives. None more so than last year when we welcomed you and now you will be our blessing for all of time. I love you Cora, I am thinking and dreaming and praying for you.
Goodnight sweetheart. Your Daddy loves you so much.