Happy Birthday, Daddy!

For those of you that don't know my father, you are truly missing out. He is unlike anyone else on this planet. To start, he is the nicest giant you'll ever meet. At 6'6" and 'X' amount of pounds, he is the best hugger I know, but beware, he could very well pop your head off if he squeezes too hard, which is highly likely. He is full of more knowledge -- both useful and pointless -- than Wikipedia and his beliefs and opinions are no one else's but his own. I love that he plays by his own rules and doesn't let anyone drag him down, for too long at least. I am very proud of him for who he is and that he is constantly striving to be better. A better father, grandfather, brother, son, husband, workerman, person.  

There are so many things about my Daddy for which I am grateful. For providing a childhood full of laughter, meals, memories, experiences, etc. For providing for us. For taking us on countless trips to places that were full of history and culture and reality. For opening our eyes to the world. For not killing me as a teenager. I am grateful that he tried his hardest to be the best dad he knew to be and he truly was. Looking back I wouldn't trade any of it for anything.

I am learning who I am more and more every day and I wouldn't be able to say that if it weren't for you, Dad. I am lucky to be your daughter, and happy to be able to call you my best friend. 

I love you so much. Thank you for being you.

Happy 50th birthday?!?!? (It's official, you're old.) ;P

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