Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day Jesse!

Yes, this time last year, Jesse was a Dad. But, being only a few weeks into the job, it was hard to see what he could do, per say. Now, a year down the road, I can say that Jesse is an amazing Dad. He loves to love on Ryleigh, playing with her, and sharing his life with her in a way that only he can. Sure, he does things different than I do with her, but thank goodness for that! Jesse is learning his own way to parent Ryleigh, and I'm so thankful to see their relationship evolve and grow. Ryleigh loves her Daddy, and gives him snuggles and smiles unlike any other. Her face perks up and her smile when she hears him get home from work, or when she hears his voice on the other end of the telephone. These two have a special father daughter relationship, and I look forward to watching it continue to blossom in the years to come.

Jesse, thank you for all that you are to our family. Your hard work to support us does not go unnoticed, and your desire for adventure and fun has helped to keep life interesting. We are so lucky to have you in our life, as husband and daddy, and I'm glad we stop, if only for one day, to recognize all that you mean to our family. We love you!

To my own Dad,

Thank you for all you have done for our family as well. I know growing up in a house full of 5 women, you got overlooked often amidst the drama. I know we took you for granted and never full appreciated all that you did for us. I see things now that I did not see before, now, having become our own family and having our own daughter. It truly puts things into perspective. I love watching you and Mom continue to love on us kids, our spouses, and now your granddaughter as well! Our family continues to grow, all because of the love and sacrifices of you and Mom. I love to watch Ryleigh smile at you or cuddle against you. You certainly do know how to wrap around the fingers of little girls! So thank you, for all you are and all you do. It no longer goes unnoticed. =)

To my father-in-law,

Thank you for raising your family with love and support. I know that my husband did not turn out so wonderful simply by chance, so I thank you for investing in him and his life. Thank you for accepting me into your family, and treating me like one of your own. And thank you for loving Ryleigh so cutely! Her latest "pa-pa-pa" trick is pretty stinkin' cute, and all because you taught her! Thank you for always encouraging us and showing us that family is most important.

To my grandfather,

Thank you for being you! Our whole family loves and respects you...why? Because you have taken a keen interest in each and every one of us individually. Your smile speaks volumes, and your laughter touches my heart. Ryleigh loves "going for a ride" with you in your chair, or playing with your cane while climbing up your leg. She loves you already, just like the rest of us.

All of the men in our lives make such a difference in our very existence, and many times, their acts of kindness or sacrifice go unnoticed, unacknowledged, and unappreciated. Not this year. Not anymore. I'm so thankful to every man in my life, whether you are my husband, my father or father-in-law, my grandfathers, my uncles, my cousins. You have all shaped me into the person I am today, and have helped create beautiful, loving families. You should all be proud of yourselves: because we are certainly proud of YOU!

Lots of love to all the fathers out there! Thank you for all you do on a daily basis to make life wonderful.