Daughters
“Soon you will start your first real job, and they are lucky to have you. You will learn fast, work hard, and be kind to everyone in the building.”
“Stand tall, even if you fall. Take pride in how far you've come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don't forget to enjoy the journey along the way.”
“I still think about those long summer days when you were little. Sandy feet, melting ice cream and you laughing until the sun went down.”
“If I could give you one gift, it would be to see yourself through my eyes. You would see someone kind, brave and far more capable than you think.”
“Someday when the pages of my life end, you will be one of the most beautiful chapters. Stand tall, even if you fall. When life tries to knock you down, this old lion will always have your back.”
“You spend your days taking care of everyone else, often for twelve hours straight. Today is for you. Put your feet up and let somebody take care of you.”
“You have handed out a lot of grades, so here is one from me. Top marks for patience, kindness and believing in every kid in your class.”
“When I count my blessings at Christmas, you are always at the top of the list. You have brought more joy to my life than any gift under any tree.”
“You'll always be my baby girl, no matter how old you get. Happy birthday! Take pride in how far you've come and have faith in how far you can go. I love you more than words can say.”
“You will make a hundred decisions on your own now, big ones and small ones. Trust yourself. You have better judgment than you give yourself credit for.”
“I still cannot explain what you do all day to anyone who asks me about it. This has never once stopped me telling them about it for twenty minutes.”
“Two simple rings and a few short words, and your whole life changes. I hope it changes into something even more wonderful than you pictured.”
“Wherever your new home is, we are still under the same sky. When you look up at night, know that I am probably thinking of you too.”
“From your crazy rants to your witty comebacks, you're comedy gold. Never lose that spark. Life's too short not to laugh, dance in the rain, and find something good in every day. I'm so proud of your joyful spirit.”
“I still wake up early on Christmas morning, even though nobody races down the stairs now. Some habits stay with a dad, like listening for the sound of your feet.”
“I did not arrive with any right to tell you anything, and I knew that. So I turned up to things and fixed what needed fixing and waited to be asked.”
“I made every mistake with money that a man can make when I was younger. You have made none of them and you have never once said so to my face.”
“This Christmas you might be working while the rest of us open presents. We will save you a plate and a seat, and we will toast the nurse in the family.”
“The house is louder for three days when you visit and too quiet afterward. Your mother and I do not talk about that part. We both just go to bed early.”
“You spent years getting ready for the world, and now it is your turn. Go out there and show everyone what I have known all along.”
“This Christmas I wish you rest, good food and people who make you laugh. I wish you a new year that is even kinder to you than you hope.”
“Always keep me in your heart, for you are always in mine. I'm sorry for the pain I've caused. Please forgive me. You are one of the most beautiful chapters in my life, and I cherish you always.”
“I watched you move your tassel today and tried very hard not to cry in public. I did not manage it, and I am not the least bit sorry.”
“If you are on shift this Christmas, we will celebrate whenever you get home. The day on the calendar matters less than having you at the table.”