Mason's First Thanksgiving!

Mason's first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 

Fort Smith, Arkansas.  

Son, 

Today is your first Thanksgiving and there is so much I am thankful for.  First off, I am thankful for your beautiful mother who has been by my side through many years.   She is such a hard worker, going to class and clinical numerous hours a day, and then coming home to care for you while she studies long and tedious hours.   She also gave me the most wonderful gift in the world, you!  

Our Family Thanksgiving Photo

I am thankful that you came into our lives and made our good life, a great wonderful life!  Thanks to you, we have started our family.  I love you more and more everyday.  I am thankful we were given a healthy, strong, and happy baby boy.  Every time I think about your smile and laugh it makes me want to smile as well; it's contagious!

Mason and Mom

I am also thankful for my good health and being able to work.  I love my job and would not trade it for anything else.  I know people may complain I get rough hours and horrible days off, but I really enjoy it.  Plus, it pays the bills.

Mason, as you get older you will understand you can follow your dreams and do what makes you happy.  You will have to make sacrifices for yourself and others in order to reach your goals.  Just know your mother and I will always be there to support you.

Ba Noi traveled from South Carolina to spend time with Mason

I give thanks to my extended family.  If we did not have other family members who welcome us with open arms then things would not be the same.  It is important to try to get to know other family members and build a good relationship with them.  

Son, you have a large amount of aunts, uncles, and an infinite number of cousins who are always nearby.  If something should ever happen to your mom and myself, I know you will always have some sort of family in your life.  I am also thankful for all of your grandparents.  Not everyone can say they know or met their grandparents when they were born, but you were very fortunate.

Dad and Great Grandmother

I am also thankful for my friends.  Near or far I know who my friends are.  Mason, you will have a lot of people come and go throughout your life.  You cannot label everyone as a friend, there will be many acquaintances and co-workers but only a few are your true friends.  

Thanks to you this is a Thanksgiving your mother and I will never forget.  We love you.

Dad