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I blog for essentially 3 purposes:
1) Stewardship of my life thoughts and learnings
2) Influence and encouragement for
    Christ-followers and leaders
3) To leave a digital-footprint for my children and
    grandchildren

Think about it - everything you ever post or blog will echo into the future.  The internet will outlive you. 

And so today I blog to an audience of one:
Josiah Nathan Herron.

One year ago today something happened. 
You made your grand entrance into human history. 

The ancient Hebrews would name their children using at least one syllable from God's intimate Name, YHWH.  "Jo" and "iah" are both syllables from God's Name.  You are special.

3 events have profoundly shaped my life:
1) Choosing to follow Jesus as my Forgiver and Leader
2) Meeting your mother my senior year of high school
3) Becoming a daddy to you

Because of you, my heart is larger.  Your mommy is filled with joy.  I've become a huge advocate for open adoptions. 
My house is a mess. Power naps have become my friend.  I'm learning sign language.  Juliet the Wonder Pug gets to go on a frequent walks with you in tow.  Bald is beautiful.  I'm addicted to "Yo Gabba Gabba" on tv.  I see Children's Ministry in a whole new light.  I want to be a better man.

Thank you, Josiah, for one.  Happy Birthday. 
Can't wait for two.

Comments

[emily]

you are a lot of things to a lot of people, but when i think about jon, i think friend. these are the kind of posts, my friend, that i love! it's cool to read how parenting has changed you...it's a whole new kind of life changing love!!! happy birthday josiah and happy anniversary of the day your life was FOREVER changed, jon :).

[steph]

What a great post to read- children truly change your life in an amazing and wonderful way. Happy Birthday Josiah!

[Kerry]

Jon,

Wat a beautiful post. You beat me to the idea, I am waiting till my child is born to do the same thing. Any day now, we will be welcoming our child to the world, and I can't wait. Thanks bud.