An old letter from my husband left me speechless

Discovering an old letter my husband wrote to me when we were teenagers filled me with joy. I couldn’t wait to open it and take a trip down memory lane to those carefree years filled with cherished moments.

Inside the envelope were a bunch of old photos of many of our classmates, but what caught my attention was the photo of Thomas. He was a good friend of ours who tragically drowned. The strange thing was that all of the photos of the students were taken at the school except for that of Thomas. His was taken at the lake where he lost his life.

Along with the photos there was a note that read, “I did this for us, but you must keep silent.” The handwriting was definitely my husband’s.

But what could this even mean? Why was Thomas’ photo different? I was confused as questions kept coming; questions I didn’t have answers to.

Pexels

The bittersweet memories of Thomas filled my heart. His loss was tragic. I remembered how sweet and fun he was.

As I was reminiscing my past, my husband, Ernest, entered the kitchen. His hands were dirty from the work at the backyard and he had his usual smile on the face. However, the moment he saw me holding the old letter, his face changed and his smile was suddenly gone.

“Where did you get that?” he asked with a shaky voice.

“It came in the mail. You sent it over 20 years ago, it probably got lost in the mail and now it found its way,” I answered.

His smile returned, but it seemed forced. “Wow, I can’t believe it actually came. There was this company sending packages in the future. I was just messing around back then, I thought they went bankrupt,” Ernest said.

Even if that was true, it didn’t explain the content of the old letter and the message it came with.

Ernest was quick to find a suitable explanation. “You see, I did some photography back in high-school and no one knew about it, so I took these photos to share my passion with you. It’s nothing,” he said, but the way he said it didn’t resemble his usual self.

“And what about Thomas,” I asked. “Why isn’t his photos taken at the school, like those of the rest?” I insisted.

“I probably didn’t catch him at the school. You know he loved being at the lake most of the time,” Ernest said and started preparing dinner.

Deep down, I knew there was more to the story than Ernest was willing to share with me.

Thinking of Thomas, I couldn’t help but recall that he and I could have been…you know, a couple. But his sudden death shattered any possibility of that and I started dating Ernest shortly after.

“Are you sure nothing else is going on, Ernest?” I asked again, pressuring my husband to reveal something more about the content of that old letter that caused a turmoil in my mind.

“What are you applying, Suzanne? Do you think I’m hiding something from you? Cause I’m not,” Ernest said nervously.

Midjourney

I didn’t know how to ask any more questions without my words sounding like accusations.

“Ernest, I just want to know if there’s more to the story. Whatever it is, we’ll get through it together.”

He insisted he wasn’t hiding anything, so I let it go.

Seeing Ernest in the living room having fun with our sons reminded me of how great of a husband and a father he has been to be and the boys.

I tried to shush the tiny voices in my mind that forced me to investigate further, because Ernest was a lovely man who loved us unconditionally.

I found myself torn between what the truth behind Thomas’ drowning could be, and my husband who has given me the perfect life.

That evening, I fell asleep in Ernest’s arms. Being there with him was all that mattered. I decided I wouldn’t let the past jeopardize my present and my future.

By storing the old letter inside a drawer I barely opened, I made my choice. And that choice was to trust my husband, no matter what my heart told me.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

My neighbor screamed: ‘Your husband is a monster’

That knock on the door and the words “your husband is a monster” shattered my world. What started as a day of relaxation and some time for myself, turned into a complete chaos that ended my marriage of twelve years.

Looking from outside, everyone believed my marriage to Andrew was picture perfect. We lived in a suburban neighborhood, our children attended an elite school, and we both had high paying jobs working in the same company, he as a manager, and me in HR.

Reminiscing my relationship with that charming man whom everyone adored, I realized there were way too many red flags that I somehow ignored.

Midjourney

Andrew has always been overly protective, but now, as I think about it, he was in fact possessive. Whenever I would engage in a conversation with someone at work or at a social gathering, he would pull me aside, reminding me not to get too friendly.

On the other hand, he never forgot my birthday or our anniversaries. In fact, he was pretty romantic and treated me with flowers and a lot of attention. Yet, there were always those late meetings at work and a female perfume on his shirt that he blamed on the office environment.

That day, I was home, taking a day off in order to be able to have some time for myself.

Just as I finished vacuuming and was getting ready to enjoy a good book, there was a loud knock on the door.

My neighbor, Melissa, who was usually a very composed woman, stood there trembling and with tears in her eyes.

“What’s wrong Melissa,” I asked in confusion.

“Your husband is a monster,” she screamed.

About 30 feet behind her, running toward my house, was my husband. The same husband who was supposed to be at work.

Seeing him, Melissa grabbed me by my hand and pulled me inside, shutting the door behind her.

Trying to compose herself, she said, “Andrew and I have been together for two years.”

“What?” I yelled.

“He said he would leave you, and I am now carrying his baby and he’s threatening me and asking me to terminate my pregnancy,” she added through tears.

Andrew’s words through the door, “I can explain,” were enough confirmation that Melissa was telling the truth.

What followed were days of constant arguing and Andrew begging me for forgiveness.

However, his actions were something I could never get over.

Midjourney

He promised to change, begging me to take him back. But, the damage was done.

While my children still had their father, I no longer had a husband.

The divorce was a painful one, but it was something inevitable. I felt liberated and was ready to start my life over away from him and Melissa.

Andrew remained part of our children’s lives, but he was no longer part of mine.

For what I knew, I always deserved someone better.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

Every day, I noticed a lonely little girl with a red bag at the bus stop

Moving to the new neighborhood meant a fresh start for me, a journalist who needed some break from the constant ringing of telephones, the stressful environment, and the aggressive clacking of keyboards. Little did I know, however, that a little girl with a red bag would change my life forever.

My new home was settled in the heart of a quiet neighborhood that gave the feeling of a warm blanket I desperately needed.

The subdued rumble of the handful of cars that passed down the street felt more like a forgotten whisper than a disturbance.

This place resembled a paradise, and I loved it.

As I was unpacking my things, I noticed a lonely little girl with a red bag in her hands. She stood at the bus stop across the street. For a long time, she didn’t move, she just started at my house.

I wondered why she was there, alone, but I didn’t dare to get out and ask her, not wanting the neighbors to believe I was there to uncover their mysteries.

The following day, when I looked out of the window, I stumbled upon the same sight.

The same girl, and the same red bag. She was motionless.

I tried not to stare and returned to what I was doing around the house. After some time, however, I looked outside again, and the girl was still there.

Midjourney

That night, I couldn’t sleep. I wondered what was happening in that girl’s life and I was eager to learn more, but I didn’t want to scare her.

A couple of days passed by, and the girl that held tightly to her red bag was standing at the bus stop again.

It became a morning routine for me to glance through the window and look at her, unaware if I needed to make a move.

Then, one morning, she wasn’t there, but her red bag, which was worn at the edges, was placed in front of my front door.

Midjourney

My heart raced and my hands trembled as I opened that red bag I had seen many times before and wondered what it held.

Inside, I discovered the most delicate little creations that seemed to breathe with imagination. Tiny houses made out of bottle caps, toy cars made of plastic and wires, and dolls fashioned from fabric scraps. Each of the tiny toys was handcrafted to perfection.

Was it possible that those little hands were able to produce such beautiful creations, I thought to myself.

And then, at the bottom of the red bag was a note.

“Hi, my name is Libbie, I make this toys to pay for my grandma’s medicine. My parents died in a car crash three months ago, and I have no one else besides my grandma. Would you like to buy some? Thank you.”

Pexels

Tears filled my eyes and a lump formed in my throat. I realized the girl was not just lonely, but she was also lost in her world of responsibilities and the daily struggle to provide for her grandma although she was still just a child.

She stood at the buss top not only because she tried to sell her perfectly crafted pieces, but also because deep down she hoped someone would notice her.

I took all the money I had in my wallet and put them in the red bag. As of the toys, I placed them on my kitchen counter.

When the morning came, I waited patiently for Libbie to appear. The moment I noticed her, I opened the door and welcomed her in. She was afraid and surprised by my offer.

“Please get inside,” I said. “I have some homemade cookies and warm milk.”

“Sorry I bothered you,” she whispered quietly.

“Oh, sweetie, you are not bothering me at all, please get inside,” I insisted.

Libbie entered my home. She sat at the chair and grabbed the glass of milk.

It was then that she shared her story with me. Her dad would take her to the bus station every morning so that she could catch a bus to school. On her way home, her parents would wait her there.

The bus stop was the place that reminded her of the good days. By standing there, she pretended that her mom and dad are still around and it made her feel a bit better before she would return to the harsh reality.

My heart broke for Libbie, but I assured her I would be there for her.

Over time, she and I became friends. Libbie would visit me often, and I would help her craft her toys.

Pexels

A couple of years latter, when I married my boyfriend Darren, we decided to adopt Libbie.

Her grandma is staying with us, and we all take care of her.

As of Libbie, we helped her set a website where she sells her toys and people are touched by her story.

She, however, still wants to stay at the bus stop every now and then.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

My son disappeared when he was 15

Julia felt like her world shattered into a million pieces when her husband Tom was diagnosed with cancer. Sadly, the prognosis was bleak and he passed away just two months later, and when she re-married, her son disappeared.

Her heart ached, but she knew she needed to remain strong for her son Rob who was still very young and devastated by the loss of his dad.

Months passed by, and the grief only grew stronger, but then, Tom’s brother, Mike, became part of Julia’s and Rob’s life. Julia was aware that Mike felt something for her since childhood, but she chose Tom and never looked back.

Getty Images

However, Mike’s presence in their life started feeling good so Julia decided to marry him and give her son a father figure.

Mike and Rob seemed to grew fond of one another. Well, at the end of the day, Mike was Rob’s uncle, and he was now also his mother’s husband.

Julia worked a lot, and whenever she would return home, Mike would tell her how he and Rob had a fantastic day going hiking, visiting the park, or doing other fun stuff together.

Getty Images

One day, however, upon arriving home, Julia stumbled upon unusual silence. She wondered if everything was okay when Mike approached her, hugged her, and told her her son disappeared.

In the letter he left for his parents, then 15-year-old Rob wrote:

Dear Mom and Dad,

I’ve decided to leave because I thought it would be better for everyone if I wasn’t around to bring up more bad memories and sorrow. Please understand that this isn’t because of anything you did, but a decision I felt I needed to make for the sake of peace at home. I promise to take care of myself and hope you can find it in your hearts to forgive me someday. Remember that I love you both, and this is the hardest choice I’ve ever had to make.

Take care,

Rob.

Getty Images

Julia was convinced that this wasn’t something Rob would ever do. Scared for her son’s life, she went straight to the police station. However, since he had left a letter explaining his reasons for leaving, they couldn’t do much. Upon Julia’s assistance, they did try to help her in the search, but they eventually gave up and told Julia that he obviously didn’t want to be found anyway.

Years passed by since her son disappeared but Julia never stopped looking for him.

This poor mother searched the crowds, held vigils, and even kept a candle lit on the windowsill. She knew all this made Mike angry because he convinced her to stop trying to reach Rob when he didn’t want to be found. And on the tenth year of his disappearance, Julia decided to let it go and move on with her life.

Getty Images

Julia needed a fresh start, so she and Mike bought a house two states away. Their old house was given to Julia’s sister Schuyler because the thought of someone outside the family owning the place was unimaginable for Julia. With the move, she gradually distanced herself from her side of the family. But one day, a familiar face appeared at her door.

It was her sister, Schuyler. She was visibly nervous and said the two needed to talk. At the time, Julia was doing something around the house, but Schuyler insisted she stopped right away. “Go check your husband’s glasses case,” she said with a trembling voice.

Julia did what she was told. Upon opening the case, she found a phone. Her sister explained to her that it was a burner phone that Mike used to call Rob every month just to make sure he wasn’t returning home. Her son disappeared because of her husband.

Getty Images

It was Mike who convinced Rob that his mom would be better off without him and sent him to live with an aunt from his father’s side.

Schuyler learned this when she received a wedding invitation addressed to Julia. Rob was getting married and despite Mike convincing him his mom didn’t want him to be part of her life, he still wanted her to be part of his wedding day.

Schuyler managed to contact him through the sender’s address on the wedding invitation and that’s when she learned that Mike contacted Rob without Julia being aware of it for over ten years.

“Look how much mom has to work to feed you,” Mike would tell Rob. “Wouldn’t it be nice if she spent that money on herself? Wouldn’t you like to release her of the burden that you are?” He suggested Rob leave the house and the poor kid agreed, thinking his mom had no room for him in her life.

Getty Images

Julia used the burner phone to contact her son. She explained to him that she had no idea what Mike had done and that she never stopped looking for him.

Julia eventually divorced Mike, sold the property they purchased together, and bought a house next to Rob’s. She attended his wedding and is now a grandma of a beautiful boy.

Please SHARE this story with your family and friends on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

We gave a homeless man a place to stay for the winter

Whenever I left my office, I would notice the homeless man sitting at the corner of the street. He was always carrying a kit and was occasionally fixing people’s shoes in exchange for a couple of dollars.

Something about this man felt comforting, like the warmth of an old friend.

I would sometimes greet him, but other times, I would just stare at him and then leave.

One day, I stopped and asked him if he could fix one of my shoes. He took it and said it would take him around twenty minutes. While I waited, I realized how skillful he was. He introduced himself as Jeff, and we said hi to one another every day after that.

Freepik

During a cold and bitter day, I spotted Jeff on the street. Before I got in my car, I asked him where he was spending the night.

With sadness in his eyes, he told me that the shelter was full for the night but that he would manage. It was obvious it wasn’t the first time he was outside during freezing weather.

I felt sorry, and without giving it a second thought, I offered him to spend the night in my basement. It wasn’t much, but there was a bed there, and it would be better than being outside.

Jeff’s eyes beamed with hope, but he was hesitant to accept my offer, which he said was more than generous.

Upon insisting, this homeless man finally agreed to come with me.

I spoke to my husband and explained that something in me told me to bring Jeff home. My hubby, as understanding as always, said he trusted my judgement.

The following morning, the entire house smelled of freshly made pancakes. My kids were overjoyed and the moment they saw me, they said, “Mom, Jeff is so fun.”

He on the other hand felt a bit embarrassed and apologized for getting into the kitchen. I just smiled and said I appreciated it.

Later that day, I went to the basement to check on Jeff and saw that he fixed a bunch of things, including a broken chair and the leaking faucet.

For reasons unknown, I felt like Jeff belonged there. I talked to my husband and told him I wanted us to have him for the winter.

“But for the winter only,” he said, and I agreed.

When I told Jeff that he could stay, he was overwhelmed.

Both the kids and I loved having Jeff in our lives. As days passed by, we bonded and formed a beautiful relationship.

But it was when I showed him the old family albums that something in him changed. I noticed he felt uneasy when he saw the photo of my mom, but I convinced myself I was just imagining things.

But no, I knew I was right when I realized Jeff was gone.

On the couch in the basement, he left the box he always carried with him. Inside was a photo of him from his young days with a baby in his arms. On the back of the photo, it was written, “Jeff and Ellie, 1986.”

Ellie, that was my name.

There was also a letter. When I read it, I understood that sense of comfort I felt in the presence of the homeless man.

Jeff explained that he and my mom met when they were both very young and then she fell pregnant with me. Things were fine between them until he cheated on her and she found out. It was a mistake he regretted over and over again, but my mom decided to cut him off of our lives. She took me and left. He tried to find us, but to no avail.

These words shocked me. My mom always told me my dad abandoned us.

I was furious and called her to confront her.

She admitted she lied to me because she was too hurt because of his affair.

I tried to find Jeff. I was going around and my heart skipped a beat whenever I would see a homeless man, hoping it was my father.

Months passed by, and I finally spotted him one day.

He looked sadder and smaller than before. When I approached him, he started crying and begged me to forgive him. “I already have, dad,” I said and hugged him.

I knew he truly regretted cheating on my mom all those years ago, and I knew he was a man with a heart of gold who deserved a second chance.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

Emilio Santoro: All You Need to Know About the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist

Emilio Santoro has captivated fans worldwide as an Elvis Tribute Artist, showcasing unmatched talent and dedication to preserving the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s legacy. From groundbreaking performances to his heartfelt love for Elvis Presley, Emilio’s journey is both inspiring and fascinating. Here’s everything you need to know about this talented artist.

From Somerset to Stardom: Who is Emilio Santoro?

Hailing from Weston-super-Mare in Somerset, England, Emilio Santoro was born on November 14, 2002. Despite his humble beginnings, with no musical background in his family, Emilio carved his path in the tribute artist world with remarkable dedication.

At just 22 years old, Emilio is already a household name in the Elvis tribute community. He has performed globally, winning prestigious awards and capturing the hearts of Elvis fans everywhere. Emilio Santoro Elvis Tribute is described as a heartfelt endeavor:

“Ever since I started my tribute to Elvis, I’ve always wanted to pay a sincere tribute to the King. I feel blessed every day to be able to travel the world singing the best music that has ever been made.”

Elvis Lives Through Emilio Santoro’s Performances

In 2019, Emilio made his U.S. debut during Elvis Week in Memphis, the King’s hometown. Despite career setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, he honed his craft and released multiple albums, including With Love, The Christmas Album, and At the Movies.

In 2024, Emilio reached a career milestone by becoming the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist, the highest honor bestowed by Elvis Presley Enterprises. This achievement followed his win at the Images of the King Professional World Championship in 2022, making him Europe’s youngest champion. He also earned a $20,000 cash prize and the coveted Ultimate Winner Belt for his dedication to honoring Elvis.

Falling in Love with Elvis Presley

Emilio’s love for Elvis began at just four years old when his mom, a devoted Elvis fan, watched videos of the King on the anniversary of his death. Captivated by Elvis’s charisma, Emilio began mimicking his moves and performing in a homemade gold lame suit gifted by his aunt.

This childhood fascination grew into a lifelong passion that led him to study Elvis’s mannerisms, music, and stage presence. Emilio’s tribute to Elvis is more than just an act—it’s a heartfelt homage to the artist who shaped his dreams.

Emilio’s Personal Life: Girlfriend Julia

Since 2019, Emilio has been in a loving relationship with Julia, who has been a pillar of support throughout his career. Emilio frequently shares heartfelt posts about Julia, including a touching tribute for their 5-year anniversary in 2024:

“I’m so lucky to have found someone that makes me so happy every day. Not many people would be able to support me with all the traveling, but you are always there behind me, pushing me to do better.”

The couple’s relationship highlights Emilio’s grounded nature, even as he rises to fame.

A Star on America’s Got Talent

Emilio gained widespread recognition with his audition on America’s Got Talent, where he performed a duet with a holographic Elvis created using cutting-edge AI and hologram technology. The breathtaking performance left judges and audiences mesmerized, proving Emilio’s talent and innovation in the tribute artist world.

This iconic moment showcased the timeless appeal of Elvis Presley, brought to life through Emilio’s passion and creativity. Fans worldwide were left in awe, many admitting to getting misty-eyed seeing the King on stage once again.

Emilio Santoro’s Legacy: Keeping the King’s Spirit Alive

Through his dedication, Emilio Santoro has ensured that Elvis Presley’s legacy continues to inspire new generations. With his authenticity, talent, and innovative performances, Emilio has set a new standard for Elvis Tribute Artists.

Please SHARE this article with your friends and family on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

First Surviving Octuplets Turn 13: A Look at Their Lives Today

On January 26, 2022, Nadya Suleman’s octuplets celebrated their 13th birthday. Born in 2009 after 12 embryos were transferred during IVF, their birth drew global attention and prompted stricter regulations in fertility treatments. They are now known as the first surviving octuplets.

Consequently, the doctor responsible for the procedure lost his medical license. Known as “Octomom,” Suleman already had six children when the octuplets were born. Her decision sparked mixed reactions, ranging from admiration to criticism.

Despite the challenges, she has remained focused on raising her family with a simple lifestyle, emphasizing veganism and healthy living.

The Birth That Captured the World

The octuplets’ birth was a medical marvel, as it marked the second full set of octuplets to survive infancy. At the time, the family faced intense media scrutiny. Nadya Suleman’s parenting style, financial struggles, and unique story made headlines worldwide. However, as the years passed, Suleman shifted her focus to creating a stable and nurturing environment for her children.

Today, the octuplets are thriving in a supportive home, attending school, and pursuing individual interests. Suleman ensures that her children maintain a sense of normalcy, away from the spotlight that once dominated their lives. Her approach to parenting demonstrates resilience and adaptability, even in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

Life at 13: Growing Up with Octomom

Suleman has shared that one of her primary goals is to teach her children the importance of health and well-being. By adopting a plant-based diet, she has instilled values of compassion and environmental responsibility. In addition, the family engages in regular activities that promote physical fitness and emotional connection.

Furthermore, Nadya Suleman has taken steps to rebuild her financial stability. She works diligently to provide for her family, emphasizing the importance of hard work and determination. Her story serves as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and finding strength in family bonds.

A Legacy That Sparked Change

Thirteen years after their historic birth, the octuplets and their mother have come a long way. Their journey highlights the complexities of modern family dynamics and the power of resilience. Despite facing criticism and challenges, Suleman has remained committed to her children’s happiness and success.

As the octuplets continue to grow, they serve as a testament to the strength of family and the enduring spirit of their mother. Their unique story continues to inspire and captivate people around the world, proving that even in the face of adversity, love and determination can create a bright future.

Looking Ahead

As the octuplets navigate their teenage years, Nadya Suleman remains committed to ensuring they grow up with values of kindness, humility, and self-reliance. The story of the first surviving octuplets serves as a testament to the strength of family bonds and the resilience of a mother who chose to defy the odds for her children.

Please SHARE this article with your friends and family on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace

Snow day announcement from a school brings joy to the internet

The trend of schools announcing the snow day to their students is all over the Internet, but the video of Swartz Creek Community Schools, a school district in Michigan, definitely stands out.

It features Superintendent Ben Mainka and Principal Jim Kitchen, wearing their school team gear.

“I’d like to take a moment to share a brief video announcement,” Mainka said at the beginning. “I know that one of the things that’s been happening — which is an epidemic across our country — is that superintendents and other administrators are coming up with ridiculous songs.

“And they’re playing music and putting on sunglasses on and making absolute fools of themselves trying to cancel school for a snow day,” he added, looking all serious.

At that moment, music starts and Mainka starts singing, but he’s then interrupted by Kitchen.

“Let me reiterate we are not going to humiliate ourselves by singing a snow day song,” Kitchen said.

But then the music starts again and it seems like Mainka and Kitchen can’t help themselves but put their glasses on and start their fun performance of Hallelujah, adding silly lyrics and some amusing antics.

Once the song ends, Mainka says, “I honestly don’t know what happened. I can’t stand it when people sing about snow days!”

The pair ended the announcement by emphasizing that school would be off.

“For the safety of our students and staff, we are going to be canceling school tomorrow,” Mainka said at the end of video. “Please be safe and stay warm.”

Not only they brought laughter at those who witnessed their performance, but both Mainka and Kitchen showed their vocal abilities.

“I have no doubt the children you educate are being taught well and probably do love coming to school. We need more educators like you guys,” someone commented. “Outstanding!!! What a great job and great voices! You gentlemen are obviously inspiring leaders! Cheers to the SCCS community, you folks are blessed to have these gentlemen!!,” someone else added.

The video of the fun snow day announcement has been seen over 1.4 million times. It’s definitely something you don’t want to miss.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.

Bored Daddy

Love and Peace