Ode To Pops

There are not enough words to express how awesome my dad is. He is so encouraging, supportive, loving, kind, strong, creative, and thoughtful. While he is definitely has that "protective father" quality, I'm most amazed by his ability to let my sister and I go after our dreams. Any idea that I've ever had, my dad has been behind me 1000%. Does he always agree with my choice? Probably not. Sure, he worries. But he knows that the most valuable lessons that I'll learn are the ones I have to figure out for myself, and sometimes the hard way. When whatever plans I've made or am going after don't work out, he picks me up, dusts me off and says "Ok, what's next?"

Dad and me at my MSW graduation

He's also never pressed his beliefs on me or my sister. Dad's always enabled me to think for myself. He's absolutely wonderful to bounce ideas or questions off of. The more and more I write about him right now, I'm just in more and more awe of what a truly incredible dad he is. I feel so lucky. He and my mom have given me such strong roots and a solid foundation and then sent me off to explore and carve my own path in life.

My dad's not had it easy over the past couple of years. Far from it, in fact. After all the encouragement and support he's given me over the years, it's been an honor and privilege to be able to (I hope) give that back to him. Dad, I've seen such strength in you over these past few years. I know you haven't felt that way, but trust me - it shines through you. I'm so proud to be your daughter. Happy Fathers Day!!!!!