Happy 50th, Dad. I love you.

To Little Daddy,

Things I know to be true because of you:

1.     I’m a sparkler.

2.     I can run further than I ever thought I could.

3.     Any day can be made better just by turning on Caedmon’s Call.

4.     Anyone who can write, “Hold me Jesus” is a genius.

5.     That Baylor University is one of the best places on earth to be. I love being a Bear with you!

6.     My passion for things is good, wanted, and needed.

7.     It’s always better to choose words wisely and to hold my tongue.

8.     That the Vince Gill Christmas album will make me feel like its Christmas like nothing else can.

9.     That the Dallas Cowboys won’t be good again until Jerry is gone but that doesn’t mean we won’t support, love, and watch every single game because that’s how you be a true fan and plus, they’ll always be America’s team.

10.   That Ping Pong is fun to play and even more fun when it’s against you and Sara Evans is playing in the background.

11.  That if I ever put too many Christmas lights on my house you will forever and always call me Griswoldian.

12.  That I can ski Blacks good but Blues better (and it’s more fun).

13.  That sports are a way to bring people together and spending time and money on things that you and the people around you are passionate about is worth it and can change lives and relationships—not to mention create some of the best memories.

14.  That Dirk sings “We are the Champions” better than anyone ever has or will.

15.  That Tyler, Texas was and always will be the perfect hometown.

16.   That hard work pays off and giving away what you have earned is not only good but also necessary… you give of what you’ve earned better than anyone I know.

17.  That I am beautiful.

18.  That I am worthy of being pursued by a Godly man… (Hopefully one like you!)

19.  That I am loved. By you and mom but more importantly by my perfect Heavenly Father.

20.   That I am your daughter and that I am a daughter of the King of Kings and because of these things I am cherished, held tight, chosen, and deeply loved.

Daddy,

I would be lost without you. You speak identity and truth into me in a way that no one else does. I never feel more safe and loved than when I am with you. Thank you for all that you do for me. I am eternally grateful that the Lord would let me call you Dad and I can’t begin to explain how much I have benefited from that. I love you deeply and I cannot wait to continue to add to the list of things that you have taught me and the things that I know to be true and good because of you and the way you have loved me. You truly are the best and I am blessed to call you my little daddy. Happy 50^th! Celebrating you today and everyday.

I love you,

Little Dee