You're a boy!

This morning I took your mother to her 20 week ultrasound scan. In addition to the headaches she's been getting, she has started getting stomach cramps and numbing in her legs. These are all normal symptoms of pregnancy we are told.

During the ultrasound, I asked to find out the gender. The doctor asked us to guess, and we both said boy. She said we were right and gave us this cool congratulations card!


So now that we have a better idea of who you are, we can start planning for things a bit better. When my father was in hospital I told him I wanted to name my son Kobe Henry, and he got very emotional and cried. It's not set in stone yet, but I am fairly sure that is the name I want to go with.

I chose Kobe to name you after my favourite basketball player, because he represents determination, competitiveness and resilience. I want you to have these values as a person. I have a feeling your mother will try to give you the easiest life possible, and whilst I understand that comes from a good heart, I think it's important that life isn't too easy, and that you need to be challenged and disciplined, in order to grow up to be a well adjusted man. So I will apologise now in advance if you ever feel I am too strict with you. I want you to know I'm only doing it because I love you and I want you to be the best person possible. Those who have things easy never appreciate what they have. Conversely, those who work for what they get learn to appreciate the value of their rewards.

The name Henry is obviously to remember your grand father. I will make a separate post about him another time, but I want his legacy to live on, through you. I felt it would be a bit weird to have Henry as the first name, it would be like calling my dad when I call out to you. So Kobe Henry sounds better. Plus that means you will have the same initials as me.

I'm already worrying about the challenges you will face as a young man, from doing stupid and dangerous things, being disrespectful as a teen, and falling into the wrong vices life has to offer. My job is to help you navigate through these difficulties and come out on the other end as a good man. Don't be an alcoholic. Don't be a gambling addict. Don't be a violent person. Don't fall into crime. Don't get with the wrong crowd. Don't use drugs.

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