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Here's to you, Dad

Today is my dad's birthday!

This deserves a blog post for the obvious reason, today 48 years ago the world became a better place because my dad was born. It also deserves a blog post because this year is the first birthday, well in my lifetime, that I will not be celebrating with him and the rest of my family. I guess that could be considered a good thing since it shows that I'm growing up and taking on new adventures but it also means that there is a little part of my heart crying out for home. 

If you know my dad, you know how great of an influence he is to all people,  myself included. My dad is a man that persistently seeks God, always makes time for others, and constantly invites adventure and fun into my family's life. My dad is a man of deep love, abundant talent, fruitful leadership, and never ending kindness. I've learned this not only because of his love, guidance and presence in my life but also by watching him interact with so many people over the course of my life.  
Coming to Texas and, so far, managing on my own has made me realize how lucky  I am to have the father I have been blessed with. From teaching me how to ride a bike, to parallel parking (several life lessons there), to navigating a new city on my own, my dad shown me that life is just one big adventure. He's taught me that dreams are meant to be followed and failure doesn't mean give up, it just means keep trying. My dad, along with my mom, has shaped most of who I am and all I aspire to be, which I am extremely grateful for. 

So this one is for you dad, thanks for all you've done. Not only for me personally but for mom because it's shown me how a man should love his wife, for Tyler, Thomas and Coby because it's shown me how a dad should support his sons, for the people you lead at church because it's shown me how to be a dedicated leader, and for the people you may never see again because it's shown me how to be a gentle heart. I'm blessed to be your little girl and I know that now more than ever. I'll be celebrating from Texas! 

Always,


Kayla
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