I always knew I wanted you as my husband. I was selfish and hadn’t much considered how you’d be able to take on the role as “Father” should we ever have children. Sure, we talked about kids from the moment we met, but we didn’t rush into it. And I can honestly say I really didn’t know what kind of Father you might become. If I’d have gotten my choice, I would have picked a man who, in the presence of his children, was patient. A man who worked hard to be kind. A man who was not only motivated, but motivating. And as funny as my own Father. I hoped this man was wise. Playful. The cool Dad. And one who followed Jesus. A man whose word was his bond. A man who not only said what he meant, but did what he said. Someone tough enough to discipline, but soft enough to know when. A gentleman. Who defined honorable. A man who loved his children so passionately that he was willing to put his own life/dreams and other personal pursuits on hold for the sake of his child’s needs, wishes, well-being, and ultimate happiness. And a man who’d not only hold our child when their life got turned upside down, but one who’d also hold their Mother when the life we’d planned for didn’t always work out. I never really put those things into so many words until now, but I’ve thought them so many, many times over the years. Our son Eli, is only three. But in three years I’ve seen you live up to my wildest imagination of an amazing Father. You are everything as a Father that I aim to be as a Mother, and countless nights I lie away thinking of how sublimely perfect you are to me. To E.
Thank you for being so present. So very active in our daily lives. And for not only providing for us in every way imaginable, but for supporting all our dreams and still finding time to make us laugh to tears every single day. You are the love of my life, J. And Eli’s too. This smattering of images from our day-to-day proves it. I love you more than you know.
Happy Father’s Day.
We love you! ~Shannon & Eli