A big happy birthday today to the first man I ever loved! You’ve been such a strong, smart, and kind influence to have been able to look up to for 23 years now. I wish I could be spending the day with you but I can’t wait to see you so very soon!

Growing up I often never saw it or felt it, but as I look back on the past there’s no denying it… this apple didn’t fall too far from the tree at all. My Dad and I are similar, so very similar, and I couldn’t love anything more. Although sometimes I think Mom might disagree 🙂 From taste in music, food, sports, things that make us laugh, and thinks that bring about our stubbornness- we are one in the same.

Notice his face…

It wasn’t until I started packing up and moved away from home that I realized just how integral my Dad’s love and support are to my day to day life. For my entire life, he has always been my coach. From when I was little he coached my friends and I on the soccer field for years (I still remember how upset I was when he told me he wasn’t going to coach anymore after 10 years). Now, he continues to be my coach through life- on a daily basis he answers all my questions the way only Dad’s can. I still remember the day I graduated from UVM and looked at his face in the crowd, knowing that it was his support and ability to teach me, push me, coach me to do my best that lead me to where I was at that point…and where I am today a year later.

On the day of my High School graduation, as I walked across the stage to receive my diploma, the photographer pointed out to the crowd. I turned and looked, seeing my Dad as he was the only one standing in the crowd holding up this giant sign he made. It was a complete surprise, and will always be one of my favorite memories. This picture was featured in the newspaper the next day. 

My Dad is smart, kind, genuine, and such an unbelievable Dad, Friend, Brother, and Husband. I am both so honored and excited to walk down the aisle with him so soon. It may not be easy for either of us, but I know I’m the luckiest bride to have him on my arm.

So Dad, Happy Birthday! I love you so incredibly much! I miss you every day- all our inside jokes, the way only you and I can make each other laugh, your never ending support…and your totally amazing food (your one trait I unfortunately didn’t inherit). Thank you for helping to raise me to be the woman I am today. Please know that wherever I go in this life, there’s never a goodbye between us, your love follows me and I know that I’m never alone.

P.s…. as much as I love you, you’ll never beat me in the christmas ornament competition.