It was pretty cool

{written by Ryan}

This is the first, and most likely the last, time I will post something on this blog. I'm not on Facebook, I don't tweet, I have an iphone with only three or four apps, and I have 20 or 30 unanswered invitations on Linked In. I know I'm supposed to be heavily involved in social media, but I guess I'm just not that interested in how everyone I may have ever known is doing at every moment of the day! I guess I am a combination of private and apathetic.

I did; however, have an extremely wonderful experience last night that Ali is making me share with those of you who love and support our family. I was able to attend a semi-formal daddy-daughter dance with my oldest daughter Brynlie. She looked absolutely beautiful, and I couldn't believe my fat little baby girl had grown into such a vibrant, beautiful young lady. We were invited to this event by Megan Smothers, one of Brynlie's best friends. We arrived, and had a wonderful catered dinner, followed by pictures, projects, limo rides, and dancing. There were 60-70 daddys there with their daughters, and most of the girls were somewhere between 7-10. I kept looking around and noticing the joy on everyone's faces, and feeling the love in that room. I know it sounds cheesy, but there were slow songs, and fathers danced with their little girls, some holding them in their arms and moving around the floor (including Brynlie and I). While holding my daughter in my arms, with her head on my shoulder, I was overcome with love for this little daughter of God. I couldn't believe how lucky I am to have her, and the other children back at home. She was so happy all night, and she was truly in her element. Many people who know Brynlie believe her to be shy and quiet . . . which she can be; however, you get Brynlie on the dance floor, and she comes alive! She ran up on the stage and began dancing with Megan in front of everyone! She got other girls involved, and formed large groups of young dancers. She had a large line of young girls who mimicked her every move while they danced to "Girls Just Want To Have Fun". She and Megan were the life of the party. Now if any of you have ever seen me dance, you can imagine that this put quite a bit of pressure on me! I am possibly (with the exception of Ali), the worlds worst dancer! I was a percussionist, and full rhythm . . . I just can't make my body move to the rhythm. I had to go dance in the middle of the floor with the best dancer there! Thankfully, she wasn't embarrassed dancing with me, and I just tried to copy all of her moves. Pretty soon the floor was full of daddys mimicking the moves of their little girls.

I always want to feel like I did last night . . . lucky. I have never felt more blessed. I have never felt more happy to have the family I have. I realized again last night that nothing; no amount of money or fame, could ever amount to the happiness and love I felt for my daughter. I love watching her smile. I love her sense of humor. I love how much she loves and cares for our family. I am already sad to see her leave our house in 9 years. I hope I can take advantage of every moment until then!