Ode to a Daddy

Attention: Belated post ahead.


Well, look at you.
A daddy for three years running now.

And each year, I am delighted by all the things the past year of fatherhood brings for you, my dear husband.

I can remember like it was just last night how very slow you drove home from the hospital the first night we left to take Nolan home. I laughed at you, but inside my heart was swelling with love at how adoring you were of your little boy already.

From then on you have embraced the responsibility of the life we created together... with gusto!
You are his biggest fan.
His mentor.
His disciplinarian when necessary.
And of course his best friend.

He will often say he "loves you" from the backseat, just so you are sure.
He likes the Chicago Bears, to mow the grass, play golf and use tools... just because you do.
He will often request to stay up, just to fall alseep on the couch next to you.

He calls you guys "the boys". And will often put limits on what the girls can do with the boys.
He adores you.
Almost as much as his sissy.

Who, when Nev was born added a little more sparkle to your eyes.

You just sat there holding her in your arms for like ten minutes after she arrived. Soaking every bit of her in.
And from that moment it was evident you would fight tooth and nail to make sure she had everything she ever needed. {wanted is a different story.} {wink}
She just bats her eyes at you and you crumble.

She will run to meet you at the front door when you come home from work, just so she can wrap her tiny arms around your neck and squeeze you tight. She likes to sit on your lap. Or be held in your big strong arms.
She will request for you to swing her outside, and you do so until your arms are ready to fall off.
She sleeps sideways in our bed, often taking up most of your side, just to be next to you.
She gives you lip kisses {most recently with a little added snot} {yuck!}.
But, it's her love.
And right now... she only has eyes for you.

You protect them.
Provide for them.
And love them. Unconditionally.
Even when they have been fighting all day and you have to hollar for them to give you a little peace and quiet for the thirtieth time in a ten minute span.

They are your whole world, and it is something so sweet.

So today we say "thanks" for being who you are every single day.
A dad.
Their Dad.

Happy Fathers Day!

Until next year...