Best-est-est

The standard has always been set high. My mom regularly reminded my sisters and I that we were not to settle for a man of less caliber than our dad. Our dad who is a calm leader, a concerned father, a considerate husband, a generous neighbor, and a devout man of God. Of course we would roll our eyes (at least I did) and act like we'd marry whoever the heck we wanted to marry.

I love you Dad!
Happy Father's Day!

But as Kelby and I started to get more serious in our relationship, I slowly saw that the reason I was so attracted to him was because he displayed exactly those valuable qualities that I experienced in my dad growing up. He never turned down an opportunity to help someone, he entertained any kid needing attention, he treated me like a queen, and he prayed fervently. And the day we said our vows, I looked at him, keeping in mind all those things, and married him. He is now the standard that will be set in our home. For Max, he will be the example of both hard work and tenderness.



Ever since Max was born, you've been teaching him all about everything (and I mean everything) around him. I swear you introduced him to every inch of the hospital room and every new room he has entered since. It seemed strange to me at first but now I appreciate so much how you take him seriously. I know he will appreciate that too. I love how you get up early with him and get him his milk so I can have a few extra minutes of sleep. And one of the great things about you, and about fathers in general, is that you are able to focus on Max when it's just you and him. Unlike mothers (well me at least) who always have a to do list distracting them, dads can give their undivided attention to their children and live in that moment entirely.

You are a wonderful father and I can't imagine a better source of admiration for our children than you. Happy Father's Day, Kelby!