Dear Princess Sophia,

I was talking with Nana and Grandpa the other day and mentioned that this would be your last birthday before officially becoming an adult. It hadn't really hit me until I said it. Its not like either one of us is going to stop being a kid any time soon ;-) but it is a reminder of how little time Mama and I have left with you before you head off to your own adventures. It is going to be really sad for me not to have my old buddy around to watch shows and be grumpy with, but I am very excited to see what decisions you make in your path to adulthood. There are many different kinds of people you will have to interract with throughout your life. Some of them will frustrate you, others will make you truly angry, and some will become your best friends. If I were to give you some advice it would be to give people a chance. We all have blind spots and failings and we are rarely the people that we hope to be. But most of us are incredible sometimes if given a chance. I have struggled with this lately, and I will struggle with it in the future. But I want you to know that empathy for others, especially when they are not at their best, is a truly wonderful gift. I know you have it, and can be so kind to others. Try to remember that when things get tough. I continue to be very proud of the person that you are. I hope you know that, and that you know how very much I am in awe of you. From your incredible mind to your loving heart, you are a great person. I feel proud for whatever small part I have played in helping you become who you are, and I hope you know I will always be there to give you what love and support you need. 

Love always, 

Daddy