Happy Belated Birthday Dad...

Friday 25th March 2011

Dear Dad,

I have been thinking about this for a few days, but haven't had the time to sit down and actually type it up for you. So I hope, that even though it is 3 days late - you will forgive me, and manage to appreciate the sentiment :-)!

I was just thinking back 12 months and how much things have changed... 12 months ago we were celebrating your 70th, and had some family photos taken:

We had managed to sneak our big brother over from Australia as a surprise for you, even though you thought you knew - you didn't really, and the look on your face said it all as he walked in that afternoon with Mr. C and I:

I only wish we'd been able to capture your face as Brendon walked in...!

You had a VERY pregnant daughter and also daughter-in-law:

And while we knew that Button was on her way, the others had chosen not to find out - so we were still in suspense :-)! 

Little did we know how much these gorgeous babies would change our lives though... it's just something you never 'get' until it happens to you.

I am so glad that you are my Dad, you are Button's Poppa and you have been here to share these first special year with us:

I saw your look of helplessness as I went into labour, I know the sleepless night you had as you waited alone for the news she had arrived, and I saw the tears you shed when you caught that first glimpse of our little girl.

And just think - 12 months on and you're now 71, and our wee babes are almost a year old...

We love you Dad - happy belated birthday!

Elizabeth xx

PS - Here's to another 12 months of amazing family memories, and many moments to treasure together!