30til30: Day 27

I have 30 days until I turn 30, so I thought I'd try to choose 30 moments that have helped shape who I am and want to be. Coming up with the list has been challenging...and enlightening. These final few  ARE in a particular order.

27: Dad.

I don't think you fully realize how great your Dad is until you see him as a Grandpa. It has been amazing to watch him through the eyes of Emma and Candace. I have a new perspective on my childhood.

Why I think my Dad is the best Dad:

• He was 18 when I was born and started work to support his family right out of high school (and he's still doing the same thing today).
• We did a lot of fun things growing up...we laughed a lot.
• Speaking of that, my dad is literally the funniest person I know.
• He is the only male in our house. Even our pets have been girls.
• I have photos to prove that he tried to get my sisters and I into what he was into (fishing, pool, bowling, golf, hunting, etc.). Amanda's the only one who took to any of it, and that was just fishing.
• He knows EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING. Just ask Molly. She will confirm.
• From a broken hinge to lending money, he always tries to help me if he can. Even if he's frustrated with any of us girls, I truly believe he wants to help us because he does it again and again.
• He gives good and sound advice.
• He is silent unless he has something worthwhile to say. He doesn't feel the need to "fill the void."
• He lets me spout off my opinions and listens.
• Technology hasn't passed him by. He's even on Facebook.
• He is actually a really great friend to me. 
• My Dad is a professional Grandpa. I'm moved by how much he loves those girls. 
• He is still married to and loves my Mom. There have been many things that could have torn their marriage apart, but they're still in it. It's inspiring. Dave and I talk about it all the time.
• He made the decision to start bringing Emma to church with my mom. I know it isn't about me, but it means a lot that he's around on Sunday mornings. It feels "right." I love it.

How he shaped me:

• I mean, he's my Dad...so...pretty much in every way.
• My sense of humor is largely inspired by him.
• We are both painfully introverted, and need to get to know people before we can truly be ourselves.

Dad - 

The sacrifices you made to raise us aren't lost on me. And the sacrifices you make to help raise Candace and Emma do not go unnoticed. I'm in awe. I believe there is potential to see glimpses of Jesus in every person, and you show that glimpse through your love and sacrifices for all of us. 

You have been a great Father, and you've given us all a wonderful foundation for life. I am who I am because you're my Dad.

I will never love anyone like I love you. I wouldn't even try.

Love you,

Danielle