Friday, June 27, 2008

Oh jeez, kid. You're really in for it.

Letters to Mena, vol. 1

Dear Mena,

With two months left to go until you leave the uterus, you're pretty much under your mom's influence right now. Oh sure, you may hear me speak in the mornings and evenings or you may hear Emmy Lou bark, but for the most part it's you and your mother. I'd like to apologize right now for her taste in modern, popular country music. I intend to broaden your musical palette when I have more say in the matter, but this is really out of my control for a while. If you ever develop a strange affinity for Kenny Chesney you will know the reason why.

As your dad, I feel I should let you know how totally unprepared I am for this. As I say that I realize that you're pretty much unprepared for everything that will happen to you in this life as well. Sorry about that. One of the ground rules to life seems to be that you get the test first and the lesson second. It may sound unfair, but it's really not so bad most of the time. I'm going to try to look like I know what I'm doing most of the time, but know that I'm probably making it up as I go.

One of these days I hope that you're in my position with all kinds of different wonders about a life that you've had a hand in creating. I don't have a mountain of expectations for you. I have no clue what to expect at all. I know that you're only going to head one way through life, and that's your way. I'm cool with that; I'm looking forward to it.

We're getting our house ready for your big "arrival," although you've been here the entire time. Your mom and I have been seeing a doula and she's been full of advice about how to make carrying you around a little bit more comfortable. We have a couple more months and a couple more baby showers and you'll be here.

2008 has been an odd year. It's been full of wonderful excitement as we prepare for you and also some sadness as I've mourned the loss of a couple of friends. I was especially close to Jeanne, and she was very much looking forward to meeting you. It was not to be. In your life you will meet a few people who live without fear of regret, and live to savor what this world has to offer. They yearn to be involved in their communities, care for strays, read books, and enjoy good food and drinks with friends. Draw yourself close to these people, Mena, and enjoy them for all they are. They are the people that leave the biggest impression.

Stay well inside your mother's tummy and know that as you grow, our love for you also grows.

Until next time,

Dad