4/20/21

Dear Atlas,

It’s me, your Dad.

You’re the first thought to cross my mind when I wake up. There is a new consciousness emerging in you, and I’m aware of your entrance in our lives even when I’m still waking up myself.

Every day is a miracle, Atlas. Or, as Sister J used to say, “Every day is a beautiful day, Aaron.” That phrase has a whole new meaning to me now that I know you’re coming!

Atlas, I’d like to share something with you that comes straight from my heart. It’s about your name. As parents, our first gift to you comes in the form of your name. Your Mom and I both knew the strength, value, and meaning that would come from giving you a name.

We wanted something that would be unique, creative, and reflective of your future personality. Your Mom had a few ideas and parameters for your name: it had to start with an A, plus include another A. Two A’s—perfect.

I won’t ever forget the moment it happened, the time we both looked at each other and agreed to name you Atlas. It felt right. Instantly.

What I want to share with you is where the choice of your middle name comes from. Lucas is the middle name shared by the past four generations of firstborn sons in the Plaat family.

Within that lineage, there was a very strong connection. One could say the love for family has increased dramatically over time, as it truly began with a deficit.

I sincerely want to name you Atlas Lucas Plaat because I want you to know that you share a lineage and history of strong men. They were not perfect, but they did their best, lived outside of their comfort zones, and ultimately put their family first in the lives they lived.

Your Great-Great-Opa was a famous bounty hunter known for hunting with a single bullet.

Your Great-Opa was a war hero and professional motorcycle racer who swam with sharks. He wrote a book about his life, including his love for family and desire to see them grow together.

Your Opa (my Dad) was a family man who found unique ways to spend quality time with each of his six children and my Mom.

As for you, I hope your family is the light of your life, as you will be the light of our household and a great bringer of joy.

I’m proud to be your Dad, Atlas.

Dad