Happy 50th birthday, Dad!

Happy 50th birthday to my dad! I feel like I can't help but get a little sappy with such a milestone birthday. When I think of my Dad, three words come to mind ... handy, helpful and hardworking. Dad is super skillful and self-sufficient. He knows how to build, fix and design. He can do carpentry, can dabble into plumbing and is pretty good at welding. Dad is always willing to put his skills and hands to work for others. He often helps out friends and family without expecting them to return the favor. Dad is also very hardworking. Mom and Dad were thrust into parenthood a little over 30 years ago when I was born. Knowing he had a family to support, Dad took on carpentry work in New Jersey. And, since then, has continued to work hard for us. He farms land, raises cattle and custom-feeds hogs. He doesn't get many days off and puts effort into what he does every day. His efforts gave my sisters and me a stable, comfortable upbringing. And for that, we will be forever grateful.

Lots of love to you today, Dad! Enjoy your special day ... you deserve it!