If you read this, you probably know I’m nuts about being a dad.  Yesterday was a very special day as it marked my son Kaden’s third birthday.  This post is for him, in hopes that someday he can read this and be reminded of just how much he means to me.

Dear Kaden,

I can’t believe that you’ve been in my life for three years already.  You are so big, and every time I look at you I am reminded that you are no longer a baby, but a have grown into a wonderful, active and smart little boy.

I remember every minute from the day you were born, from the frantic drive to Riverside Hospital to the very first moment when you arrived in this world.  The delivery was rough on your mom but she was a trooper, and was going to stop at nothing to make sure you came into this world OK.  When the doctor finally got you out, I was the first person who got to see you.  As I stood over you, the tears rolling down my face, you reached up with you little hand and touched mine.  At that moment, time stood still. Your Grandpa Steve once told me that seeing your child born was like experiencing the presence of God.  I know now that Grandpa was right.

I am so proud of you. Your mom and Sarah are proud of you too.  Your grandparents (all four sets now) cherish you and have been such a big part of you life.  You are so very special to each and every one of us.  Life has been full of change for you and I in the past year, but we’ve come out on top of new beginnings.  You’ve found a friend and brother in Jacob, and watching the two of you wrestle and talk, play, and grow together is one of my favorite parts of the day.

My only hope is to be the very best dad I can be.  I’ve made so many mistakes and I’ll make more as time moves on, but I am learning, and I will always try.  I will always give you my 100% effort.  Above all else, you will always be my first priority, and I promise that I will never take you for granted.

I never thought that I could love someone so much, but I do.  I love you and I will always be here for you, no matter what.  You have so much potential and it’s my job to always cheer you on and help you to grow.  I’m privileged and so happy to take on that mission.

Happy birthday my son!  You will always be my little rock star, and I will always love you…

Love Dad.

P.S.  Here’s how cute you were at your birthday party last weekend up at Omi & Opi’s in Massillon.

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