Dear Jefe,
Well, this isn’t exactly what we had planned, is it?
Can you even imagine what the two of us would have done if we had seen our life at 31 when we were just college babies? My goodness, we have come a long way.
It was always my intention to write this letter right away, and I’ve been starting it over and over for like 20 days now. It’s just time. So here goes:
I love that you were so jumbled up when Tessa first joined us. I think it shows how much you really care about your children and their lives.
I love that you let her beat up on your treasured Taylor guitar. It makes her so happy.
I love that you worry so much about Ellie finding her own way. And when I tell Ellie that her college is already picked out, you are right there telling her that she can pick whatever school she wants… and also reminding me that maybe Tessa will be the one to go there instead.
I love that you still try to make sports be a bonding thing with the girls, even though after 5 years, Ellie still doesn’t even understand that the Cubs and the Bears play different sports. She’s got a lot of me in her. There’s still hope for converting Tessa.
I love that you will do “mom” things. I want you to remember that you did say that you want to do PTO. Just putting that out there. On the internet. So that we all know you said it.
😬
I love all the ways that you help me and our families. I love that you do the tables at family parties and that you help me put the dang Christmas tree up when you would rather be doing 87 other things and that you bring me fresh ice water at night and all the other things.
And, because it’s 31 for 21, allow me to say this: I love your advocacy. I love your willingness to understand Tessa’s needs and to fight for her rights. I know for certain that NO adult believes in her the way that you do. I love that you are raising her to be as kind, polite, respectful, and helpful as we expect Ellie to be. Thanks for the reminder that Tessa is so ready to have time outs and to use her words.
You are absolutely the best father that these girls could have. And on top of that, you’re a rockin’ husband as well. And while this letter isn’t nearly as witty or thought-provoking as I would have liked, thanks for being the kind of man who will love it anyway.
I am so thankful that you picked me and I, you.
Love,
Mags
Yo soy La Lay 
Beautiful letter! We are currently fighting for our daughter inclusion in 1st grade! Can’t wait to see young mothers like you and other so talented and committed to join the fight too! My best wishes to your beautiful family!
http://www.fox26houston.com/news/212347158-story#.WAdJ3bY49qg.email
Thanks!! It’s so unfortunate that we have to fight, but good to know that we are not alone.
Please keep me posted on your fight!!