(not photography related, but important anyway)

So... 60 today. You and David Letterman share a birthday. There's something I didn't know before.

I never really thought about your birthday before. Sometimes Ma would remind me. Once or twice I might have even remembered on my own or written it down somewhere and made sure to call you. I can't remember giving you a gift. I do remember that time in college when I got a haircut for Father's Day and sent you a polaroid. I think you liked it since you still have that picture next to your desk, the one that says "Happy Father's Day haircut!" on it.

I am very happy that you and I were able to overcome our differences. Actually I think that we are more alike than different and that's where the trouble came from... some of it at least. You and I were both even born in the Chinese year of the Pig. How's that for a coincidence? And where some people might see "stubborn smartass" I see the conviction of keen observation. So there. Sometimes it's more fun to be a smartass, though.

I've been thinking about this and wondering, what do you say to your dad on his 60th birthday? I'm glad you're still here. I'm happy that we've been able to spend more time together. I'm sad that Allison and I don't still live nearby. I was very happy that you like our new house. It means a lot that you are proud of me.

My favorite memory of you is when I was a kid and you chased and caught that rabbit in the backyard of our house in the Bottom in a fish net. That was totally awesome. I remember you teaching me to ride a bike too, and how I got frustrated and threw the bike in a ditch when I didn't get it instantly. I still ride a bike.

It's weird to think that you were younger then than I am now. I don't know how you managed to do such a good job raising me and Scott. I feel like I'm barely managing my own life, and I don't even have kids yet. Any success that I do have though, comes from qualities that I inherited from you and Ma. I look forward to being there when you need me the same as you were there for me, and for your dad. That was a good example.

I didn't send a card, and I didn't buy you a present. Well, I have something in mind, but time has just gotten away from me. I guess it does that to everybody.

The best present I have to give at the moment is to tell you that I love you and I'm happy and proud that you're my dad. Happy birthday.

Labels: happy birthday dad love