Chloe,

I never knew one year could bring about so much change. You have grown up more than I anticipated and, frankly, more than I was prepared for.

You began Kindergarten this year. Although you were excited you still held onto my hand each day as I walked you to your classroom. And when the time came for me to stop walking you in, it broke your heart. You wanted me to keep walking you all the way.

I did too. I never wanted to let you walk in that building all by yourself. It wasn’t you starting school that was hard for me, it was letting you go by yourself. But I knew I had to.

You are still my little girl and you will always be. But I see you growing up in so many ways. Now you anxiously look out the car window as we drive up to school. And if you see one of your friends you ask to be let out early so you can catch up with them. Some days you turn back and wave. Some days you don’t.

You love school and you thrive when it comes to learning. I’m so proud of you for that. You love people and make friends with everyone you meet. You stick up for others and care about what happens to them. And you never get in trouble. Well, you don’t at school.

Chloe, you are such a blessing to me. You teach me more than I ever thought possible. You teach me how to be a dad and you teach me how to let go. You teach me to laugh and slow down a little bit.
You teach me that there are depths and heights of love I never knew existed. You teach me to value others and befriend the friendless. You teach me the heart, love and message of Jesus daily.

Chloe I am so very proud of you and I am so blessed to be your daddy. Thank you for being you.
Happy birthday, birthday girl.
I love you,
Daddy