First outing with dad, by yourself!

Dear Emily -

Yesterday you went on an outing with your dad for the very first time all by yourself.  I have to admit, I was nervous.  Samantha patiently listened to me prior to the day, and then just as patiently listened to me all mushy talk about you and your dad after you pulled away and came back.  I am so proud of both of you, sweetheart.  You have a dad that loves you so very much.  He's an amazing dad also.  He said you loved your first day at this class he took you to, so signed you up for this next month.  Every Wednesday you'll be able to spend the day with him :)

I was able to quickly snap this picture of the two of you before you both headed out, before my phone died.  It was perfect!  You two looks so happy, and so much alike too!

Since you were born I've been waiting eagerly for the day to arrive where, by himself, he could experience this amazing joy of one-on-one time with you.  As I've watched you grow and change, and experience new things in life, I've often wished he could experience them too ~ I missed that for him.  And we waited.  I shared everything I could with him in words almost daily, and we waited.  Waited for when the time felt right where you wouldn't be upset being away from me.  What was most important to your dad was your security and confidence... he waited for you to be ready.

Although I eagerly waited for this day to arrive, I was nervous.  You are almost always with me, I couldn't imagine you not being with me.  Even after I buckled you in to the carseat, gave your dad helpful hints, and proudly watched you pull out of the driveway and head down the road, I felt that hint of nervousness.  I hoped you would be ok, but also knew you would be.  I didn't doubt anything you would throw at your dad he'd be able to handle.  I was excited for your dad to have this precious time with you, and looked forward to the stories he would share :)

I love you sweetheart, so very very much.  I am so thankful to your dad for the blessing he is able to give being in your life and showering you with all the love he feels for you as well.  You are so lucky and blessed.  Your life holds so many possibilities, and I'm thankful you have both of us to support you along the path in different yet very important ways... that only a mom, and only a dad, both you love you, can do.