Dad,
Happy "Half of a Hundo" Birthday! It's wild how fast time flies and how people evolve over time. As your little girl, it's been amazing to want you grow as a dad. There is so much to be thankful for about having a dad who is ever-changing. You have been the best dad and friend in fifty years on this earth and I think our Heavenly Dad is already saying "well done."
I've been thinking a lot about our relationship and how it has evolved over me becoming an adult. I'm finding with are similar and different in a lot of ways I wasn't aware of but, I've decided I love all of it. I love that I have a big vision for my life like you, and it's important to have a REAL relationship with God, and how we fight for people's hearts even if it costs us a lot, etc. Even in the "bad things" I feel really grateful that they are things that I don't have to face alone because I have a great dad who will fight with me. In heaven but, also earth, which is really special.
You are an irreplaceable presence in my life. I love adventuring with you, and working on TNF, and hearing how you are doing. You have a place in my heart that I will never be able to fill with anyone else. Thank you for being around and know that it is special and significant to me that you are around. I think you are more irreplaceable then you know not just because you can do stuff for them but, you see the world and have a unique intimacy with our Heavenly Dad that radiates from you. I hope this birthday you allow yourself to acknowledge your place in this world as very good and let those around you love you.
My prayer as you go into fifty is that you will be able to only do what brings your heart alive more and more. Carry less and receive more. I'm also praying for life to slow down for you and mom in a healthy way. That more and more us kids can take care of you and mom and honor you both in that way. I am also praying for some creative clarity and energy. Dad, you have so much to offer this world still. Whether that be a book, podcast, whatever. You have so much to say still. I pray that you step into that more this year. Lastly, I am praying for boundaries to be set so you can take care of your heart, mind, and body. You take care of all of us so well. I want to see you do the same for yourself.
So yeah, I could go on and on, but I feel like this season of your life is going to be really sweet. I love you and miss you always. We will have to get some belated birthday coffee or brunch together.
Love ya - Lins