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today is my dad’s birthday (he’s super-young, by the way…only 56!). to say i’m thankful for him doesn’t quite cut it. it’s more complicated and much more deep than that, but at the very heart of it, i’m more grateful for dad than i could ever express. he became my full-time dad (never a “step-father”) when he legally adopted me when i was six, and i’ve always felt amazingly lucky that he chose that path. dad is funny and kind. he’s not overly chatty (although if you know him, and he likes you, you get to hear some great stories) and never showy. he can fix anything (anything. i mean it.) and has taught me so much about the importance of doing your best without looking for rewards. he’s been the solid rock of our family through the years, the calm influence that makes it work. he’s strong and gentle. he’s creative and smart. he’s quietly and solidly supportive, and even when my dreams and goals in life must have seemed completely foreign to him, he was (and is) supportive and matter-of-fact…he believes in me, and has never ever discouraged me from reaching for the stars. seeing him in the role of grandpa is one of the greatest treats in my life; he really comes alive around these kids, and they adore him as much as i do.

i’m so thankful for my dad, for the life he’s helped me have, and for all the love he shares in his unique quiet-man way.
happy birthday, pop. we love you. xoxo

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