Tonight is the evening before Daddy's 60th birthday and we are sending him some very special messages.  Mommy had a very nice photo of Mark and Daddy put in two of the local newspapers with the message as follows:
                         Arms strong, yet tender enough to hug me
                         A heart big enough to love me
                         Courage enough to throw monsters out the window
                         Old and wise enough to know what matters
                         Do you know how fine you are to me!
                                       Love Mark and Mommy
We are also playing a trick on Daddy and asking everyone to send us an email to...schellau@gmail.com wishing him a happy 60th birthday!  Please join in our fun, we would love to hear from as many people as possible.  Our hope is that on the morning of December 10th he will check his email and see all of the well wishes sent to him on this significant birthday. He is one very special man who did not hesitate to become a father again at the age of fifty-seven.  Most men are looking forward to an easy retirement but to Doug it was more important to see at least one more child with feet placed firmly on solid ground.  Judging by the character and success of his two older children, he has done a magnificent job so far.  To those of you who have expressed reservations...we feel sorry for you.  As for us and our household we will enjoy the laughter!  Everyday that Mark has had this man as a father has been more than some men give their children in a lifetime.  Mark loves his Daddy and Daddy loves him even more!  This household has been so blessed with pure joy and laughter since Mark has come into our lives.  Who knows what the New Year will bring...perhaps more little feet...but if not, it is still a wonderful life!  Happy 60th birthday Daddy...you are one fine man, a wonderful father and a very special husband to this very lucky woman!