You were raised Catholic and I was raised on the back of your Harley. Tough on the outside, kind on the inside, jokes for days. I had the coolest dad in town. When I came out, it tested everything you were taught but you chose me. You redefined new ways to love me and showed up how I needed you to. You supported me through every evolution. You admitted to always knowing who I was. Beyond just being your “tiny dancer” I was your take-no-shit daughter, a mimic of you, a reflection of your innermost wild child. You went to the gay bars with me in my early 20’s where we got drunk together and sang Abba (I made sure we sang Kiss, too). You refused to wear a glitter beard at Pride while you laughed and said, “that’s too far” but you rocked out with all the drag queens as they complimented your leather jacket. Whiskey in hand, beaming smile on your face, totally out of your comfort zone and having the time of your life. You have taught me the meaning of authenticity, boundaries, living life to the fullest and never slowing down. You are the purest definition of ‘Life Free, Die Hard’ and I fear I am the same. You told me to find someone who believes in me as much as much as you do, the only time you ever yelled at me was when I was settling for less than that. The relationship you have with my wife is a dream come true. The way you never saved anyone’s number I dated before her but you saved her’s within seconds. She was in your phone as “Daughter-in-Law” right after we eloped. You weren’t mad or surprised. You laughed on the phone with her and bonded quicker than I ever thought possible. You said, “I don’t need to walk you down the aisle, it would have been awesome but just knowing you’re happy is enough for me”. You are the most selfless human being I’ve ever known. You are the coolest human being I’ve ever known. You’ve mastered the art of unconditionally loving someone while letting them be exactly who they are. I’m forever thankful we had this moment after all. You’re still the # 1 man in my life and you gained another cool ass daughter. I think we won the poker game. Here’s to lookin’ at you, kid. I love you. ♣️🕊️