Dear dad,

My dad. 

What can I say about that man?  I love him with my entire being.  He is in my blood (literally) and he is a part of me.  He was the first guy that I loved.  He took his job as a dad to two girls very seriously and he showed me and my sister constant love.  Constantly hugging, kissing and holding us.  We never lacked in that department as we grew up and I think that is very important for a daddy to do for his girls. 


Every night he would come into my room, kneel down, put his hands over his forehead and pray for me.  Some nights I didn't even close my eyes I just watched him.  It was very sweet and another wonderful memory I have of him.  He was reliable and I never had to wonder if he would be there at night to put me to bed and pray for me because the answer was always yes.  On the flip side, every morning without fail he would come into my room before leaving for work, kiss me and say I love you. At 18 years old he still came into my room doing to same thing. 


I remember one night the house was dark seeing as it was past my bedtime.  I was thirsty and went downstairs to get a drink.  I heard music coming from the living room so I peeked around the corner.  The living room lights were out and I could see my dad sitting in his rocking chair, legs extended, through the glare of the TV.  He was watching some country music channel and the video "My Maria" was on by Brooks and Dunn.  I remember seeing his foot just move right along to the music and his hand tapping his leg.  I don't remember if I said anything to him that night but that is one of my many many favorite memories of my dad.  Watching him enjoy the music.  I don't even know if he knew I was there in the kitchen.  Soon after dad got hooked with My Maria he quickly fell in love with Shania Twain's music.  Many years ago I took my dad to a Shania Twain concert.  We had an amazing time and pretty sure our voices were gone for two days after.  We sang the songs and were all smiles when the streamers and confetti fell on us when the concert was over. 


For as long as I can remember my dad has always put his family first. He always has an open lap, open arms and an open shoulder to cry on.  If I were scared at night he would lay with us in bed until I would fall asleep.  The day Joe left he held me for as long as I needed.  He is always and will always be there for me and I love him for that.  I love you dad.