Happy Birthday Dad.

I struggled to begin this post because I wanted to be witty. Sometimes, OK most times, it takes effort for me to be witty. It's true, I'm not a natural. But, I realized that I didn't have to be witty to write about my Dad, because he already knows I'm not witty. And yet he loves me. In fact, he loves me in so many sweet ways. Ways that I most often overlook in my selfishness. So today, I will count the ways. Because they deserve to be counted. And celebrated, just like him. Here's to a day of celebrating my Dad.

Dad,

I love the way you would write messages in chalk on the sidewalk all the way to the bus stop on my birthday in elementary school. 

I love your generosity and hard-working spirit. 

I love the way you buy 10 boxes of Oatmeal Squares cereal after mentioning that I like it.

I love the way you change my oil before I drive back to Elon.

I love the way you are patient with me when I forget to clean up after myself.

I love the way you provide our family with everything we need. 

I love the way you show me Jesus through your sacrifice and unconditional love. 

I love the way you encourage my adventures but are concerned for my safety. 

I love the way you tell hilarious stories about your childhood and Grandma Belle.

I love it when you think what I say is funny.

I love the way you make gourmet meals for us every night and whoever I marry will be very disappointed because of how I've been spoiled. 

I love it when you send me text messages giving driving advice. 

I actually love it when you send me text messages period. 

I truly love every single thing about you. Even when you get the "lip" and when you are mad because I'm calling to tell you I got pulled over. Again. 

I love you and I wouldn't trade you for anyone else. Happy Birthday. 

(This post is a little late because it was my Dad's birthday while I was in Haiti this past week, but better late then never right?)