To the Grandsons I Never Met

Dear Grandsons,

This is your Granddaddy. The guy whose baby photo sits alongside yours on the bookcase. See that guy in camo gear and a fancy watch holding that baby girl tightly in his arms in the photo on another shelf? That baby girl is your momma, and I am her proud Dada.

I never got to meet you — didn’t even get to watch your Momma grow into a woman. But I trust we can still forge one heck of a relationship between worlds. You see, my blood runs through you, and that blood carries bits and pieces of me as well as so many that came before me that never got to meet you either. You two come from a long line of fighters, farmers, carpenters, and rabble-rousers. You also come from a long line of pot-bellied men who giggle. Own it.

I hope I can impart on you a bit of wisdom — and maybe even a few giggles — with the following advice:

I am so happy you all have each other. I have a brother as well, and that bond is unlike anything else. Love each other as hard as you fight — preferably harder. My brother pushed me off of a second floor balcony, and clipped the tip of my thumb off with garden shears. On purpose. I highly recommend avoiding all of these things for your mother’s sake because, if I remember correctly, she can throw quite the tantrum.

Treat your parents with respect, but don’t be afraid to be your own person. I was a little bit of a rebel and would highly recommend it. You might not do things exactly the way your parents plan for you — heck, I married a New Englander — but I promise that it’s worth it. Find out what makes you happy, and go at it full steam. I’ve seen you mow through your meals (and piles of toys). I want to see that intensity when it comes to finding your life’s passion.

Don’t take life too seriously. Never be too self-important to run down a slip and slide with your suit on. Or ride a bicycle built for two. Or give a play-by-play of your daughter’s recital — all three hours of it. Life can get tough, but find a way to see the funny in it all.

Find a woman that cooks. I was on a strict diet of Girl Scout cookies and Bud Light before I met your Grammins. She’s a great cook, isn’t she? She was also the best wife. I can’t help but think the two go hand in hand.

Do what you mean, and mean what you say. Talk is cheap — except when you hire an attorney. I would know; I was one. Be someone people can rely on, and surround yourself with folks that you can count on as well. Integrity is something people will remember about you, and one of the highest compliments one can receive.

Drink your coffee black. Don’t be that guy.

Wear your sunscreen. This one is the toughest to write because I wish I had listened to it more. Protect that body you’re in because one day, you’ll want to be able to give your grandkids advice, snuggles, and high fives from this world. Listen to your loved ones when they tell you to take care of yourself. It’s not nagging (okay, sometimes it’s nagging), but it’s because they love you.

One more thing before I go — my sweet, devilish, smart, adventurous boys. You are loved. So incredibly loved. I let out a big giggle every day watching you grow, discover, and give your Momma the run around. Trust me, she deserves every second of it. She was *quite* the handful, but I loved every minute. And she does too.

Sincerely,

Your Granddaddy