To the love of my life:

Before I knew you, I thought about the kind of person I would share my life with. One of the things I pondered was what type of man I would be raising my children with. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a Mom, and I also knew I wanted to share the special moments of parenthood with someone pretty awesome.

I am grateful that it turned out to be you.

You are an amazing Father for so many reasons, but I want to mention a few of them, and say thank you.

1. Thank you for putting me first. Even though we joke about work being your top priority, I know that at a moment's notice, you would walk away from all of it, if I needed you. Thank you for loving me despite my flaws, and bragging to our kids that I am the most beautiful, most amazing Mom in the whole world. You have always lifted me up when I don't feel deserving. And, despite all the ups and downs of our marriage...the moments when we wanted to call it quits, you have stayed. You have told me over and over again, that we are a team. Our kids are watching, and they are witnessing a man of integrity and honor. A Gentleman who puts their Mommy first.

2. Thank you for working hard. One of your top priorities is to take care of your family. When times were tough, I have watched you agonize over the small amount of money in the bank account. And, I have watched you work multiple jobs to make sure we had what we needed. I've seen the stress on your face, and the tightness in your shoulders as you wished you could give us more. And yet, in all of it, we couldn't be more satisfied. We have been blessed beyond what I thought was possible. And, because of your hard work, determination, and dedication, our kids are witnessing a man who is faithful to provide for his family. What a treasure we have in you.

3. Thank you for doing your best to live by this motto in regards to your children: Play often - Teach always.
I have watched you teach lessons in many ways, but one of my favorites is when you take them out on their special "Daddy Outings." Their excitement when getting ready to go with you tells me that you make them feel like Kings and Queens. I know that you have had many important conversations over a dish of ice cream. You have talked to them about being people of integrity. You have told them the importance of living a life of honor. You have reminded them that people are more important than anything, and then you have modeled that in front of them. - Thank you for getting down on their level... For playing chase (even if it is right before we put them to bed...yeah, thanks for that). Thank you for the many times you have put your plans on hold and spent time with me and the kids.

You have shown them what a good man looks like. You are giving them a gift that is priceless...A legacy that will live on long after we are gone.

I honor you.

I love you.

I thank you