Hey kiddo. Daddy loves you.

Man, how the world has changed with you in it. And, man, how I want to change the world for you.

Being your dad had taught be so much about myself, about people management, about communication, about appreciating life more abundantly, and more.

Few things have been more rewarding than being your #GirlDad. I’m enamored with (and a bit frightened by) your intelligence, your humor, your fierce independence, your will… You will be a force to be reckoned with, no doubt.

Truly, as long as your are kind, caring of others, thoughtful, and full of wonder, you can be anything you want to be and I will be proud.

Earlier this week Nicki told me about a cartoon she saw of a mom and child talking ten years in the future about today. The mom was lamenting about the struggle, heartache, and loss while the world was dealing with the pandemic.

“I’m sure you were scared and bored and tired of being stuck inside…”

But the daughter’s memory was different.

“All I remember is that we were all together and how great it was to play and laugh and go on walks. I just remember it was a happy time!”

Even though I know you will, eventually, get up and walk away to better things…I pray that I’m not enough of a dufus to give you anything else than a happy, joyful, loving childhood.