September 29, 2008 - Dear White Sox,

Dear White Sox,
If there was any doubt about whether Alex was the right name for our second son, it was erased when Alexei Ramirez hit the Grand Slam tonight to continue the dream season.

After waiting 43 years for a World Series Championship, I got one while my wife was pregnant with my first son. We jokingly named him "Joe Paul El Duque Scott Iguchi Bernstein" -- using a name from each player who made a key play during the playoffs.

Who knows if our second son will bring me a second World Series. However, the Grand Slam was enough to convince me that Alex was the perfect name for our son.

September 28, 2008 - Dear Picole

Dear Picole,

I believe that stuffed animals are powerful and magical. I remember my stuffed animals as being my best friends during my childhood. They were, of course, great to hug when I went to sleep. They were also always there to listen and they never complained when I threw them across the room when I was upset.

My childhood teddy bear alternates sitting on my bookshelf and keeping your brother company.

I suspect that you'll be one of Alex's favorites along with Lentil, the dog I bought him and Segundo the elephant who came from friend Kate. Zap, who our same friends gave to Max when he was born, is one of your brother's constant companions.

This, of course, is both a great honor and a great responsibility. I have great confidence that you have the patience to help Alex though his rough times and the wisdom to help him find his way in the world.

Welcome to the family!