Santa, Matthew and the Greatest Gift

Matthew went to see Santa, though he most likely will not remember it. First because he was only 3 weeks old and second because he was sound asleep through the whole thing. Being born the week before Thanksgiving thrust Matthew right into the middle of the holiday season, although he was blissfully unaware.

What does Matthew want for Christmas this year? Just something to eat, to be clean and dry and loved. Simple wishes. Probably the same wishes baby Jesus had, the ones all babies have no matter the time, culture or location. Right now life isn't complicated for Matthew and I'm praying that we model a simple life for our son as he grows up. 

The gifts we want for Matthew are the same ones we wish for all. Faith, hope and love. And the greatest of these he already has. May Matthew always know he is loved and may he share that greatest gift with a world that is crying out for it like a hungry infant in the dead of night. 

As we think of our baby we remember the birth of another child. One who calls us from fear to trust, from despair to hope, from darkness to light. One who saves. 

"An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven,   and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:9-14

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Your Big Sister

Matthew, we have discovered your biggest fan... your big sister Kenzie! From the first day we brought you home she has wanted to "hold you" and "kiss you" and be right where you are. She doesn't like it when you cry. Gets quite concerned and tells you "It's OK Matthew" and "Hey brother!" 

When you were born I got Kenzie a big sister gift (a little stuffed monkey) but she wanted YOU to have it instead. She came and laid it on your tummy. Kenzie has also shared some of her prized possessions with you, including Tigger and Pooh which she normally will not part with for anything. 

At diaper change time (which you are not a fan of so far) she is right there to help, handing up wipes and kissing your head and hands and talking to you. She even helps lay out your fresh diaper and takes the stinky one to the trash. You two will be great friends.

If, like most brothers and sisters, you have days when you aren't getting along perfectly, remember that your sister was your first fan and will ALWAYS love you. You have a bond like nobody else.

Words for my Son

Matthew Nicholas my son

So big and strong in blue

We've waited years to meet you

And now our dream's come true

 There is so much to teach you

Deep pride wells up within

I want to show and tell you things

But where should I begin?

I'll teach you love and honesty

And show you day by day

Cause you will watch my daily deeds

More than what I say

Love for God and love for all

That's the calling of my life

I've found it in the Bible

And I've seen it in my wife

So many things to teach you

So many things to say

But let me never ever forget 

to simply romp and play

Matthew Nicholas my son

As I gaze into your face

Let me whisper "Jesus"

And cover you in grace

I love you more than life itself

Know this as you begin

When others may be walking out

You'll find me walking in

by Dad

Written for you on November 21, 2012

We welcomed Matthew Nicholas Leece to our family at 9:49pm on Friday, November 16! He weighed a whopping 9 pounds and 10 ounces and stretched out to 21 3/4 inches long! Reebok and Nike are in negotiations for his endorsement rights but we're going to just let him be our little boy for now.

Words can't convey how amazing it is to have a son. It's a proud feeling but not a puffed up proud, just a happy and humbled to be so blessed proud. I am already dreaming of all the fun and adventures we'll share, playing sports, going for walks, exploring and just hanging out as father and son.

You have the most amazing and beautiful Mommy and together we are going to love you always and do our best to raise you right. Big Sister Kenzie is a great helper and wants to "hold you" and kiss you as much as possible. She also pushes a pretty fast swing so she's helping toughen you up!

We have been praying for you since before we knew you were even coming and we'll pray for you every day that you'll know and love God and be the boy and man that you were created to be. 

But for now...just rest in our arms. We love you.