The Saez Family Blog: #174

Last year, the name Lawrence was ranked #458 on the baby name popularity list. It means "crowned with laurels". Common nicknames are Larry and Lars.

But, that's not why we chose Lawrence as Benjamin's middle name. We did it to honor my dad - Lawrence James Garces.

My dad, a/k/a Daddio, Larry, Lars, Road Man, Uncle Larry and now Grandfather, means the world to me. He is a kind, smart, hard-working man. He is a devoted husband to Catherine, a strict yet loving uncle to the boys, and a patient father to Jenifer and me. People like my dad - not just because he's a likeable kind of guy, but because he cares about people and takes the time to get to know them. He's very intelligent with a quiet confidence that people respect.

Growing up, we didn't get away with too much with Dad. But we had a lot of fun with him. He had an amazing ability to incorporate "teaching moments" into everyday life and common situations. He taught us the importance of manners, looking people in the eyes, and a firm handshake. His high expectations for me at times seemed daunting and unfair, but in retrospect, was his quiet way of encouraging me and fostering a drive for success. Still today, he reminds me of the importance of a quality education and a strong work ethic.

I'm proud to have him as my father, and even prouder to name our son after him.

This weekend, Grandfather, Grandmother and Uncle Robbie visited us in Savannah. It was a special time for each of us. They got to meet little Benjamin and Owen got to spend lots of quality time with the three of them. And Lou and I just loved watching our children get adored and spoiled by them.

On Saturday, Benjamin napped all afternoon on Grandfather. He was as content as could be - in fact, both of them were!

Owen was never far from Grandfather or Uncle Robbie.

And, Catherine was just in love with the baby. She held him and loved on him all weekend.

To make this weekend even better, Dad offered to help us restain our front door (that's another wonderful quality I neglected to mention above - he's very, very handy around the house!). So, early this morning, we made a trip to Lowe's for the supplies, and then the boys spent a few hours sanding and staining the door. It turned out beautifully (and saved us at least a few hundred dollars). Owen loved helping out like one of the big boys.