My dad and I at my graduation from college in 2012

My husband and I on our wedding day. April 2011

          In honor of Father’s day on Sunday, I wanted to take a moment and discuss why this day is so important and dear to me.  My dad was a young dad, at 16 years old he was just a kid doing the best he could for his daughter.  Being raised by father was truly a blessing for me.  He taught me many things, from sports, music, philosophy, and the occasional joke; but he also taught me how to be strong, faithful, determined, and confident.  He was not like other parents, but he was just right for me.  I didn’t always like his rules, and felt at times he was “too hard” today I know why he was and appreciate him for it.  Of course like any parent/child relationship we have had our ups and downs and been through things together you couldn’t even imagine.  My dad always made up for the fact that my biological mother was not in the picture.  Although it wasn’t always easy, sometimes he didn’t have the answers when it came to girly stuff but he always encouraged and supported me throughout my life.  Words cannot express the love I have for my father.  As a little girl I remember it used to bother me that Father’s Day was in the summer when I was out of school.  I always wanted to make cute little crafts in class for him.  I think today, he still has some of the things I would make for him. He’s an amazing person with many traits that I admire and I am honored to call him my “DAD”.

            Since my dad has always been the number one man in my life, I knew that I one day wanted to marry someone who made me feel the way my dad did growing up.  Like I could do anything, and that my goals were never out of reach.  God listened and answered my prayers when he placed my husband in my life.  He’s been a great companion, partner, and an amazing father to our two children.  He has taught me so many things in our years together and has accomplished everything that he set out to do.  His love for me and our family is unconditional and he has provided us with a happy life.  I couldn’t ask for someone better to raise my family with.  He’s been a blessing full of ambition with a positive attitude and outlook on life.  I love him more than anything in this world and my life is definitely complete with him in it.  He has made me so proud of all he does and I know that he will continue to go strong. 

            Father’s Day for me isn’t just a day to be “thankful” for that special man in your life.  It’s also a time of reflection and appreciation for all they do.  I am the woman I am today because I have been surrounded by such strong men.  Not only are they dedicated to their families, but they are providers and always there for their kids. I appreciate all the Father’s out there who do whatever it takes for their children.  Anyone can make a baby, but it takes a real man to be a Father.  Happy Father’s Day to all of you dads, daddies, papas, and grandpas.  Thank you all for your hard work, This is your day.  Enjoy it with all the ones you love.