N.A.T.E.

When I think of Nate as a new father....I always remember that when he would change Allie's diaper he had made up a cute little song that he would sing to her.  I can't put the tune on here...but he would sing ...it went, "It's the Daddy and the daughter duet.....and we're back on the table again." I thought it was so cute.  He always has a way of making everything...even changing diapers unique and fun!

This picture cracks me up.....I can almost hear Susan laugh as she had the girl's going after N8 and the funny expression on his face!  What a good sport!

Bev made a beautiful wedding cake for N8 and Shannon...and I had been looking for a picture of the wedding topper that N8 had picked out....but you can't see it!  The topper was of a bride that was carrying the groom in her arms because he had fainted.  It really was cute!

Oh...then Lou Lou (Janessa came along).  Nate was usually at school or work....notice the highlighter in his pocket...but when he was home....everyone celebrated!

Then there was a job in Ephraim....a home...and a baby boy!  Finally N8 wasn't the only guy in the house.  That was a great time.  School was over...and they were in a real home.

Then he was blessed with Madelyn (who quickly became known as Who-Bee....N8 loves nicknames) and little Kar Kar!  By this time N8 had become and expert with the girl's and was making sure they weren't going to be cheerleaders.  His coaching career became his second full time....non paying..job!

Just when we thought they were finished, Heavenly Father had something else in mind....and N8 (and Shannon) were thrilled to get another boy!  I think the thing that amazes me about N8 being such a wonderful dad is that he is an only child.  It's  not like he was raised in a large family like the one he now has, but he acts like being a father to so many children comes so naturally to him.  Not only does it come naturally  but he actually makes days that could be long and hectic, have a lot of fun in them with his sense of humor, quick whit,  and funny sayings.
 I was in a ward council recently and when they asked me to do something and out of my mouth came one of N8's unique sayings...before I even knew it.  I said, "I'm all over that like a rat on a cheeto/"   Everyone thought I was hilarious, and it was just one of the hundreds of things I have heard N8 say so many times.  he has actually helped us all to be able to look on the funny side of things, yet when something bad happens....he is so empathetic and sincere.

Nate is also in the unique situation of being the only family that lives less than 2 hrs. from us.....so he see's a lot of his in-laws.  I can't even imagine how hard it would be if we felt unwelcome, but he always welcomes us.  I can truly say he has never made me feel uncomfortable to be there.  That is such a huge thing for any son-in-law to do for their mother and father in law.  In fact.....we just really feel like he is ours.....and he has allowed that.   THANK YOU N8 FOR BEING THE BEST HUSBAND TO SHANNON, FATHER TO THE KIDS, AND SON TO US.  WE LOVE YOU MORE THAN WE CAN EVER SAY.  HOW THANKFUL WE ARE THAT YOU HAVE BLESSED OUR LIVES!!!!   HAPPY 37TH BIRTHDAY!!!  WE DO LOVE YOU!!!