Oh The Places You'll Go - Day 118
G Baby,
Today was one of our many adventures outside of the house in your eventful, yet brief life. So far you’ve been to the Tucker Brewery thrice, the most recent time for a full-on beerfest. It was one for the books. You’ve been to Mercedes Benz Stadium for a 5K and sat on the 50 yard line. You've been to another baby’s baby shower. Shout out the Munoz family. You’ve been to a Braves game at SunTrust Park, and we won. That one was probably a mistake; it was too hot and you were probably too young. Honestly, you’ve been more places that you won’t even remember than some adults have been in their lifetimes. I want you realize and appreciate that fact.
Today, we headed over to the Georgia Aquarium, which happens to be one of my favorite places in the city. The peace and calm I feel while sitting in the Ocean Voyager room is unmatched by anywhere else I've been. Sitting next to that much water and the creatures that occupy it is mind-blowing. Of course you fell asleep as we made it to my favorite room, but you saw a lot of the other exhibits though. I won't save the best for last next time.
You’re so observant and curious. Your eyes were so full of wonder looking at the otters and penguins and the Nemoes and Dorys. I closed your mouth for you several times. I would say the belugas were your favorite. You were completely mesmerized. You didn't sleep a wink during the dolphin show. Your entire face sparkled with excitement and awe. It makes me wonder. What causes my eyes to light up like that these days? What drops my jaw? You definitely get your sense of wonder and adventure from me, so there must be something. The faces you were making were familiar to me in a way I know I make them regularly myself.
Then, I look at your mother. I realize she is one of the major jaw droppers in my life. We are blessed human beings to have her in our lives. Our aquarium adventure was a special one. Three years ago today, your mother and I got married. We decided to forego every other person on Earth for each other. Big decision, I know. We've had some downs, but so many more ups. I'm amazed not only that someone like me could find someone as amazing as her, but that she has stayed around after years and years of my crazy and stupid. Each anniversary seems more a gift than the last. I love her so much, bruh. I can’t even tell you. I pray you get to experience the type of relationship that brought you into this world. It is incredible to be a part of something so visceral, so loving.
I also realize my eyes twinkle with wonder and amazement when I watch you. How is it that you're so in tune with what's going on around you at 4 months old? I think about what the future holds for you. The world is changing so quickly these days. There is so much unknown awaiting you. I'm a young man, but to think I'm currently more than 30 times your age really puts how much time you have in perspective. Use that time wisely son. Don't sit idly by. In your years to come, I want you to never stop adventuring. Always seek that next mountain to climb, actual and metaphorical. Take full advantage of opportunities presented to you. Seek things that make your eyes smile. The places you'll find yourself will truly amaze you. I love you always.
Keep that twinkle,
Daddio
