Happy Father's Day!

Both Sina and I gave Malu Father's Day cards this morning, but it was so much cuter to see him opening her card.

He read it out aloud to her and then they cuddled, kissed, hugged and shared a few giggles.  Life just doesn't get any better than that, I tell you.

I knew well before Malu and I were married that he was going to make a terrific father.  He just LOVES kids.  I mean LOVES them.  He's the one guy at get-togethers with friends and family that is out there giving all the kids piggy-back rides, or tossing a football around with them, or chatting it up with them.  He grew up around kids on the islands and helped raise them (i.e. his younger brothers and both his little cousins, Sala and Daniel in Utah, who were both born premature).  And he's just a fun-loving guy.  What kid wouldn't want to be around him?  That being said, I couldn't wait to have kids of our own.  Even though I knew he was going to be superdad, I am still completely blown away by how great a dad he truly is.

For the past few months, he's been a stay-at-home dad while doing classes online full-time (and acing them all on top of it!), which has been a huge help (and a relief) for me, working the crazy hours that I do.  He devotes his full attention each day to Sina, even if it means he has to sacrifice his study/homework time (which explains why he's up doing schoolwork until 3 or 4 in the morning).  In the midst of all of this, he keeps a clean house (most of the time!), is still a drilling Army reservist, and puts up with me and my antics--which, alone, should win him a gold medal.

He's the reason why I can stay focused on my job (and why I can get extra sleep overnight!). He is my best friend and confidante, and is the finest role model for Sina.

I also liked the card that I gave Malu today.  Here's how it reads...

Sina @ 6 days

On your first Father's Day

I just wanted to say

that you're doing a really great job!

Not that it's any surprise--

but who knew you'd be such a natural?

Sina @ 4 months

You take it all in stride.
You're patient, calm and caring.
You handle yourself like a pro.
And it's reflected in the way our child looks at you...

 Sina @ 7 months

Even though our baby is still pretty little,
it's easy to see
you share
a big love
And this is only the beginning.

Sina @ 8 months

Happy First Father's Day, my love.  I can't wait for many more to come.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the other honorable dads in our lives...the Dads and grandfathers whose love and support we cherish and could never be without.

My Dad

Sina @ 1 week

Malu's Dad

At far right (Am. Samoa Visit, Sep 2009)

Malu's Grandpa

Visit to Utah (Summer 2009)

And of course, my grandpa, may he rest in peace.

The greatest gift I ever had,

Came from God,

I call him Dad.

~Author Unknown~

We love you all!