To my precious Parker: Happy birthday!

Here are 11 reasons why I adore you...

Photo by Mayur Gala on Unsplash

I can hardly believe it, Parker, but today you’re turning 11!

It feels like just yesterday I was holding you in my arms for the first time, marveling at how tiny and perfect you were. Now, you’re growing into such a strong, kind and amazing girl, and I am in awe of the incredible journey you’ve been on so far.

Watching you grow over the past 11 years has been the greatest joy of my life. You’ve brought so much light, laughter and love to me and our family. With every passing year, you amaze me more — not just with your talents and achievements, but with your beautiful heart and the way you care for others.

As you step into this next chapter, I want you to know how proud I am of you. You’ve faced challenges with grace, learned from them and kept going. You inspire me daily with your curiosity, your joy and your adventurous spirit. I can’t wait to see what the next year has in store for you.

On your special day, I want to celebrate you by sharing 11 reasons I adore you.

1. You’re the “toughest kid”: I started calling you the “toughest kid” when you were just 5, pounding my chest twice and having you repeat after me. And ever since, you’ve been a tough cookie. You don’t break.
   

2. You’re sweet and kind: The way you treat your friends, family, animals and the planet shows the kindness and empathy you have in your heart. It’s something I admire every day.
   

3. Your joy: You have an amazing ability to find happiness in the smallest moments. Your joy is a gift, and it makes everything brighter. You remind me daily of how beautiful life can be.
   

4. Your leadership: You learned early to be a leader and not a follower, and now it comes naturally. Whether it’s through helping others, taking initiative or standing up for what you believe in, you do it with confidence and kindness. Your leadership is inspiring.
   

5. Your courage to be yourself: You are never afraid to be who you are, and that is incredibly special. Your confidence is something I deeply admire.
   

6. Your determination: You face challenges head-on, with purpose and a problem-solving mindset. You keep going, and that makes me so proud of you.
   

7. Your laughter: There’s nothing like hearing your laugh fill a room. It’s loud, a little obnoxious, and totally contagious. It brightens my spirits every time.
   

8. Your curiosity: You’re always asking the best questions and are so eager to learn new things. Whether it's about science, history, or something you’ve noticed around you, your curiosity is one of your best qualities.
   

9. Your creativity: Whether you're drawing, building or forming new ideas, you see the world in such a unique way. I love how you express yourself through your creativity.
   

10. You’re adventurous: You’re always ready to try something new. Your curiosity and excitement for life make every new experience an adventure, and I admire how eager you are to explore what’s next.
    

11. Your love: The love you give me, your family, friends and even strangers is something I treasure deeply. It’s unconditional, pure and full of warmth. You’re a gem, sweetie. I hope you never change.

Parker, you make every day brighter, and I feel so lucky to be your father. You are destined for greatness, and I will always be here to love, support and cheer you on every step of the way.

Happy birthday, sweetie. You are loved beyond measure, today and always.

With all my love,

Daddy