Dear Daddy

Hey Daddy!

It's me, Austin.. you know, your little man.. your buddy, your schman..

Yesterday was Father's Day and I just wanted to tell you how awesome you are! And since Mommy is the writer in the family, I thought I'd have her help me....

From Day 1 I knew I liked you. You held me, laid me on your warm fuzzy chest, and kissed my fingers all the time. I could tell how much you loved me and I loved you back.. I mean, I only pooped on you once.. if that's not true love, I don't know what is!

You are my favorite Dad, because you always have time for me! I know you are busy with work and coaching and baseball (Mommy told me all about how much you love baseball! I will too, don't worry!) but no matter what, you come home and play with me, feed me, and tickle me! Remember that one time I was really little and I visited you at work for lunch? That was so fun, Dad!

We always have fun together Dad, no matter what!

You helped me get strong by showing me how to do sit-ups...

You encouraged me and told me I could do it when I started to crawl.. those were crazy days Daddy.. I wanted to move SO BAD but just had to wait for my muscles to catch up! No matter how many times I tried and failed you lifted me up and kept telling me to try my best! I wanted to make you proud Dad!

Finally I was strong and wanted to walk! And guess what, Dad? You held my hands and helped me take my first steps! You were strong and patient and it wasn't long before I was running!

As strong as you are Dad... you are kinda a softie too. You kiss me all the time (your beard tickles!) and always tell me you love me. Thanks for showing me that men are supposed to be strong but affectionate too, and that they should be kind and loving to women. You always treat Mommy so nice and kiss her and tell her she's pretty. I will do the same when I'm a man too Daddy!

I love how you run around with me all the time Daddy... I can play all day long with you! And no one makes me laugh like you do! :-) But sometimes we have to slow down.. and cuddling with you is one of my favorite things. 

I know its hard sometimes, because I can be difficult... but thanks for teaching me about life Dad.. about what is right, and what is wrong.. how to behave and how to be polite. No matter if we have a bad night together, you can always make me feel better and get me to smile again! 

Mommy tells me I am a lucky boy to have you by my side Daddy! And I think she is right! The world is big and I can't wait to get out in it! I want to make you proud to say "that's my son." I promise I will try and do the right thing, and stay out of the dog's food and not throw too many tantrums. Just be patient with me, because I'm still little. I know you have my back though, Daddy. And that is the bestest thing ever.

I should have told you all these things last year on Father's Day but I was still a baby. Now I'm a big boy and wanted you to know how awesome you are!!

Daddy, you are my best friend.

Love you so big!!

-Austin