Daddy's Girl

Dear Dad,

I can't afford a Father's Day gift this year, and if I did spend my money, it would only make you mad, because I don't have much money these days. And besides, you always say you don't need anything. So I got creative. I made you some caramels, but they turned out rock-hard (however, if you microwave them for 30 seconds, they're edible--and delicious!). I baked some scones so that I could return those awful, pesky Gladware containers you kept trying to foist on me without success before sneaking them into my car as I loaded the cats to come home from my last visit to your house.

And I made this video, using the song I always thought would make a fantastic father-daughter dance song at my future wedding...that is, before you offered me $10,000 if I elope when it's my turn and I then decided for myself that spending so much money on a wedding seems kind of foolish and eloping to Yosemite or the beach or somewhere pretty made much more sense.

Gifts are just things, and the real reason I celebrate Father's Day is YOU. Because I'm one lucky woman to have a father who not only adores me, but who always encouraged me to be me--not the me you wanted me to be, but the me I am--sarcastic, adventurous, kind, and even a little bit of a crazy cat lady (though I'm sure if I procrastinated less, you'd be even happier).

Mom has told me many times about your first words when you saw me: "I'll go broke, she's beautiful." You've given so much and allowed me to spread my wings and fly--even when flying meant a year in England or living with you for a few years so I could stay in a teaching job I loved. I think the biggest test yet has been allowing me to keep flying solo--as much as I can without help--this last year, when things have been so tight and your initial reaction was to have me move home again to save money.

There is so much I could say, but I'm getting maudlin and the cats are wondering why I'm tearing up...and besides, I want to post this to Facebook so everyone can see that I have a fantastic dad. So without further ado, here's your video.

Love,

Your Girl