Last Sunday was Father's Day and my wife, Amber, and daughter, Haylee, decided to take me to Olive Garden for lunch to celebrate. Olive Garden was my choice because I love Italian food!!! While at lunch Amber asked me a question that I was not expecting! She asked me, "So, what is your proudest moment as a Father?" I was definitely caught off guard and had to take a moment to think about a response. For a moment I was blank because it really was a profound question that I personally had never really thought about. Then immediately I was taken back to Haylee's first dance recital last year. I remember sitting in the dress rehearsal the Friday evening before the recital, by myself, and just being amazed at how fearless she was on stage! I mean there was my little princess on the stage of the Ovens Auditorium doing her dance steps just like she practiced at home. The emotions that swelled up within me were indescribable! The closest thing I could compare to it was the moment I saw her for the first time when she was born. I was amazed, overjoyed, overwhelmed, proud, lovestruck, nervous, and afraid at the same time! Well after today I can add another moment to my list, which I pray will only continue to grow as she grows into the great woman I believe she will become. Today was her second dance recital and the same emotions from last year came rushing back the moment I saw her tip-toe onto the stage in her costume. My baby was the fifth child in the front row of her dance group, and just like last year she fearlessly completed her dance steps, while following the instruction of her teacher. At her age she seems to love the stage and is not scared of performing in front of big crowds. That is contrary to how I operated when I was her age. My ability to speak or just stand before others definitely developed over time as I gained experience. When I look at Haylee I am amazed that she is my child and grateful to God that he entrusted me with such a great gift! I do not want to be one of those over zealous parents that push their child to be dancers, musicians, singers, or actors, but it is obvious that she loves to perform! Kudos to BB Dance Productions for another great performance and for providing a great program to participate in not just for dance but to become confident, intelligent, and amazing young women. Congratulations Haylee! Daddy is so proud of you and I look forward to many more proud moments!!!!
