My Dad, the Valentine baby

Some may wonder how God could love each and every one of His children. There are billions of us and we are all so different. Growing up in the home that I did, I developed a personal testimony that God is aware of me and that He knows me on a personal level. My parents helped me understand this, not just by explaining it to me but by showing me what it feels like to be loved.

Dad turns 63 today. He is, and has always been, the best Dad I could have ever hoped for. When I was a child (and into my teenage years) my friends would tease me and ask how my parents could keep track of ten children and how they could tell us apart. From a very young age, I learned that not only could they tell us apart, but they had very personal, individual relationships with each one of us. Dad was always there for us, no matter what. He didn't miss a single sporting event or inauguration or academic award or assembly that any of his kids were involved in. He was there (next to Mom) to explain the birds and the bees. He made the time to take us out and talk to us about what was going on in our lives. He trusted us to make wise decisions and held us accountable when we fell short. He supported us financially as well as emotionally and physically. He stayed up late explaining Calculus. He always made sure we felt special on our birthdays. He is always available to talk whenever I need him. He gives the.BEST.advice and never criticizes or judges. He is so easy-going and loves to shoot the breeze. And although it rarely happens, he is so much fun to beat in a game of cards.

I don't know how Dad developed such a deep, personal relationship with each of his children, but he has. He has taught me so much over the years. He has given me a little taste of what if feels like to be unconditionally loved by a Father who knows me personally and only wants the best for me. On this special Valentine's day, I want to say Happy Birthday to the man with the biggest heart. My wonderful Dad.

If you want proof that each of his children feel the same way about him as I do, you can check out his birthday blog HERE.