Happy Birthday And Happy Retirement Dad!

Well, I wanted to write this post awhile ago, but better late than never. On October 20th, my dad celebrated his 60th birthday and his official retirement from the Canadian Air Force. When we went to Winnipeg we got to celebrate with him at his retirement party, but in May (the same week as Kallie's birthday...it was an emotional week), my dad had his military retirement luncheon and we unfortunately couldn't be a part of it. So I wrote a letter to him that my mom read for everyone, and I wanted to post it on here. b/c it was for his retirement, it speaks mostly about my dad in his job...

Dad,I thought I'd have a little more time to write this, but with everything that's been going on, I'm doing it a little last minute...so hopefully what I want to say comes across clearly.

I'm having a hard time writing through my tears...for some reason you retiring is making me really emotional (I'm sure much more so than you:). A huge part of my identity, a part that I'm very proud of, has been as a military kid. I love the fact that I've grown up 'in the military', moving around, meeting people and having experiences I never would have otherwise. I have always loved telling people what my dad does (even though I may not have always known the specifics:). People are always so impressed, and think it's such a cool job (which it is), and the experiences that you've had through your job are things I'll be telling my children and grandchildren. I am so proud of you.

The life you've provided for us, in so many different ways, has been so incredible and such a blessing. I know there have been rough patches (I acted like my life was ending with every move...we all know I have a flair for the dramatic:) but I wouldn't change a thing. I would definitely choose to grow up the same way if I had to do it over again. I love being on the base with you, seeing how everyone respects you so much and just knowing from the way people talk about you and treat you, that you are the best at your job. My sense of pride is huge when I get introduced as your daughter. Thank you so much for everything I've gotten to enjoy and experience through your career, (not too many ppl I know got to 'fly' a hercules when they were 8 yrs. old:). And thank you for being such an amazing dad, I love you so, so much, and I'm excited for you to enjoy this next part of life. I hope you will relax, and travel, and fly model airplanes...do everything you've ever wanted to as much as you want, because you so deserve it.

I love you,Lauren

Dad, you have one of the greatest characters of anyone I know. You are ethical, fun-loving, honest, dependable, hard-working, determined, always strive to do your best, and every part of your life is a reflection of that character. I have learned (and continue to learn) so much from you. Thanks again for everything dad, having you encouraging and supporting me, telling me how proud of me you are, and loving me each day of my life has been the biggest blessing of all! I love you! And I'm glad you're enjoying your retirement:)