Underwater Surprise

Fernando, being the wonderful dad that he is, planned a surprise for the kids last Monday (he wouldn't even tell me what it was!)

He drove us across town to a mall in the East Valley who just opened a giant Aquarium feature. It's technically inside the mall, but feels like a stand alone theme park - it's educational and fun for all ages - and even has a gift shop at the end.

We pulled up to the building and Daniel saw silhouettes of sea creatures painted on the side of the wall and started freaking out - "I want to see ALL the sea animals!" We told him we were heading inside to an aquarium and he started practically hyperventilating: "I'm so cited! I'm so cited!"

From giant sting rays and sharks to the tiniest jellyfish and sea horses, Daniel loved every exhibit. He even got to pet starfish and shrimp! We nearly had to tether him to the stroller as he continually raced ahead to the next feature, getting lost in the next group of people. Violet had a good time too and loved crawling in the bubble shaped protrusions that allow kids to feel like they are inside the tanks.

We went out for a special dinner at PF Changs after the aquarium, where Daniel showed no remorse whatsoever for eating a giant plate of the shrimp he had so lovingly petted only hours before.

Daniel, you have no idea how blessed you are to have the father that you do. I have never met another man who even comes remotely close to being as amazing a father as yours is. He constantly thinks about you and what kinds of things you might enjoy - and he delights in giving you gifts and surprises that you will adore. He was clearly designed just for you, to be the kind of father you need. Listen closely: He is one of the biggest gifts God will ever give you. Recognize this, and enjoy every single minute you get with him.