So, it’s that time of year again, when our family celebrates six birthdays between Feb. 1 and July 3. Today, we celebrate birthday number three in that process, so we’ve reached the halfway point. Every year, each one of these birthdays causes me to reflect. And every time, it makes me a little sad. Not only because I realize I keep getting older, but mainly because I realize my kids have just moved one step closer to leaving the nest (two of them already have).

We know our kids are going to grow up and get older and eventually move away, but with each passing year, it makes you realize how precious time really is. You can never go back to that magic moment from yesteryear. The memories live on in our minds, pictures, and videos, but you can’t go back. You can’t play with your kids like you used to and enjoy the magic of them discovering new things. It’s great to see your kids grow and succeed in life as they become independent adults, but each of these birthdays are also a stark reminder that childhood is fleeting and when it’s gone, it’s gone.

So today, it’s with both joy and sadness, I wish my daughter a Happy 19th Birthday. And the first question I always ask myself is, “Where has the time gone?” How did that precious little girl born on a Saturday morning in May at 10:06 in 2003, become an amazing, intelligent, caring, beautiful, and outstanding 19-year-old young woman?

I have so many vivid memories in my mind of here growing up, from the curly hair she somehow had when she was a toddler, to the dance routine she did on the back patio as a 7-year-old when she thought no one was watching. And how she has helped mold and raise her siblings, and kept them entertained with so many creative and thoughtful ideas. And how she helped her parents out so with many things as she continued to grow and mature.

Now she is in her third trimester of college, working two part-time jobs to help pay her bills, and serving in many other capacities. She was a great asset in our home and we miss having her here to help. But that is the process of life: our kids grow up and become adults.

Bailey, I’m so proud of you and of all the things you have accomplished and are accomplishing right now. I know you have many more great accomplishments to come. So, on this special day, I wish you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I wish you to have the best day of your life…so far. I wish you to know how much I truly love you and are proud to call you my daughter. I wish you to find peace and joy in everything you do today, and every day.

I wish you the biggest hug from someone you love, since I can’t be there to give you one in person. I wish you smiles, laughter, and a really yummy birthday treat. I wish you to feel my love and appreciation for you, and I wish all of your wildest dreams to come true. I hope you know you are amazing and that you will continue to have new opportunities to keep being amazing throughout your life. Never doubt yourself and your ability to achieve great things!

Go out and have a wonderful day, no matter what happens today. And then, get up and do the same thing tomorrow…and every other day! And eventually, when the time comes for you to have your own little ones, take the time to cherish them EVERY SINGLE DAY. It won’t always be easy. In fact, it’s almost never easy. They will drive you crazy sometimes and make you wonder if you are doing enough. But I promise you it will be worth it.

Thank you for allowing me to be your dad, and for understanding that I’m not perfect, and for letting me try to overcome my mistakes. Thank you for not giving up on me. There is nothing I value more than being a dad.

So, as you celebrate this special day, don’t ever forget I’m always in your corner, no matter what storms life may bring. You’re still my baby girl, my special “Bailey Boo.” And know that whenever you doubt yourself, I will be here believing in you.

And to you, and every current and future parent, cherish your kids every day! Childhood only comes once and it’s gone in the blink an eye. Yes, celebrate every birthday! But more importantly, celebrate every day! You only get so many…

Happy Birthday, Bailey! I Love you!

Love, Dad