The TriDad Life

Dear Beanpods,

Your Dad hasn’t had much time to sit down and write notes this summer. Life has been busier than I could have ever imagined, but in all the best possible ways.

Well, here we go again. The countdown blocks have once again reached their terminus. We’re sitting at “0” days for Beanpod #2. Just like with Beanpod #1, we’re gearing up to head into extra innings.

Two years and a day ago, I published the last note I would write before Beanpod #1 arrived. Reading it again warms my heart. To think about what life looked like at that very moment, right before our world changed forever. These notes have been a great outlet for me, when I get the chance. I’m pleased that at the very least, they can serve as a time capsule for our family.

Like I said, I haven’t had much time lately. But tonight, the house is quiet. I’m the only one up. Beanpod #1 is in bed, and Momma is trying to get some rest while we wait for the “excitement” to begin. So like last time, I’m taking the chance in this moment to take stock, to look around and to mark a few things down. A view of what’s changed, what we’ve learned, and what life looks like for us before we get to meet Beanpod #2.

So, here’s “On the Eve of Two:”

On the eve of two…Alas, we no longer live in “Tuscola Heights.” As I wrote about in a previous note, we loved it there. But things fell into place quickly a little after Beanpod #1 came out, and a year ago this weekend we moved 10 minutes west into a lovely home in our hometown of Frankenmuth. It’s a great place for our family. We are even closer to grandmas and grandpas. We’re a short walk from where you go to school. We love living in a neighborhood with sidewalks, and lovely, warm and accommodating neighbors. We’re excited to raise our family here and watch the years go by.

On the eve of two…Obviously, we find ourselves in a little different situation than last time. We’re just about two years in to this thing called “parenting.” We’ve learned some things, courtesy of Beanpod #1. As they say, we will be moving from 2-on-1 to “Man-to-Man” defense. I’m sure we won’t have it all figured out, but I think the most important thing we’ve learned in the last two years is that we CAN do it, no matter what “it” might be on any given day. We’ll never give up.

On the eve of two...So, sports. Where do I begin? Two years ago, the big story I reported on was that your dear old dad’s favorite team, the Michigan State Spartans, were in historic disarray. I’m happy to report things are getting better. Back in March, we completed one of my most favorite seasons of MSU basketball I’ve ever experienced as a fan. As for football – so far this autumn, the team is showing us there could be something to hope for. We’ve already had some great nights. Other than the Spartans, there is so much to talk about. There seems to be a resurgence in Detroit sports. The Detroit Pistons got back to the playoffs this year. The Detroit Tigers are going back to the postseason for a second straight year, albeit after a historic and painful collapse in September (as of this writing, we might still hang on to the division! Who knows!?). But I think for me, the unexpected and most anticipated happening of all is going on with the Detroit Lions. The new program under Dan Campbell the last few seasons has turned one of the league’s most pitiful teams into a consistent power that is competing at the top tier of the NFL. Could this year of Beanpod #2 be THE year we make it all the way?? I’m afraid to dream of that…

On the eve of two...Your two puppies, Henry and Suzie, are still going strong. As expected, they have been stalwart protectors of Beanpod #1. It is heartwarming to see these 3 walking around together, in our home, through our neighborhood, at the park. We’re so excited to see this little family grow.

On the eve of two...Once again, we’re going in blind. As of this writing, we don’t know if Beanpod #2 is a boy or girl. Is there really any other way to do it? We’re so excited for the greatest surprise of a lifetime…again!

On the eve of two...The fun is growing. There are other Redfords out there now since Beanpod #1. The grandkid count is up to four – we’ve got Noelle and Mitchell in Cincinnati, and now Naomi in Chicago. Beanpod #2 will make it five. And boy, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Life is fun with so many aunts, and uncles and cousins and friends, not to mention 878 Benders – We’re really just at the beginning of an amazing adventure.

On the eve of two...Your Dad still does not have a hole-in-one. But gosh dog it, I was so close 2 weeks ago on a Tuesday night league. The ball ran right past the hole and stopped 3 inches away. Someday, I believe it will drop. Perhaps God is just timing it until the beanpods are old enough to play so we can experience it together.

On the eve of two...In my most recent note in June, I was writing to Beanpod 2 about my goal to complete an Olympic triathlon. I’m happy to report that yes, it happened. I raced well. It was an amazing weekend in Chicago with family. Uncle Kent finished as well. Some people have asked me “what’s next,” to which I reply – “Beanpod #2.”

On the eve of two...Whatever triumph I may have achieved in Chicago, pales in comparison to your mother. Carrying a child and bringing them into this world is one of the most challenging endeavors a human being will ever endure. I am in awe of what she is capable of, what she is willing to do. Your mother will always be our hero.

On the eve of two...In reading the last bit of the note I wrote right before Beanpod #1 came out almost 2 years ago, I don’t think I’d like to change anything. It’s still how I feel today, in fact, ever more so now: “Your Dad feels content and grateful in his place and stage in life. With you and your mother, he’s finding strength and clarity in knowing there is nothing else he needs to go forward with purpose in this life. He may waver at times, experiencing moments of doubt and weakness, but these are fleeting. He knows the reality of you will always bring him back to square.”

On the eve of two...We’re so ready for this family to welcome its newest member. Beanpod #1 has made life so meaningful and worth living. While it will be an adjustment, we know that she’ll soon become the best big sister. She’s ready for her baby.

We’re ready for you, Beanpod #2.

Love,

Dad