Tribute to my Dad

Costco Salmon is a traditional gift for my father on Father's day. This year however, I decided on something different. My father has spent over 1/2 a century being my "favorite father" as I like to call him. Of course this is in response to him calling me his "darling only daughter". If you are reading this, Kim and Sani, I hope this does not come as a shock to you. You both should know by now that you are adopted and I am the only true daughter.
Some of you may be wondering why I am so mean. I don't know how long ago this banter started but my dad lovingly refers to my sister Sani as his "adopted" daughter and me as his "only daughter". Sani has patiently, tenderly and faithfully cared for all of my fathers needs for many, many years. Only a true daughter would do that and I thank you Sani. You are the other half of me.
Now back to dad. When I read about the love my heavenly father has for me, I see a reflection of my dad. Deuteronomy 1:30 says my heavenly father will go before me and fight for me and that I should not be terrified or afraid. Thank you dad for fighting my battles and always protecting me. I could always count on you to speak to teachers, Principals, and coaches on my behalf. I think of all the times you stood with me as we faced my fears together. Those fears came in the form of nightmares, riding BIG horses, trying new sports, encountering crashed planes loaded with drugs in the middle of the night, intruders in our home, going off to college, moving away from home and cancer.
Matthew 6 talks about our Heavenly father providing food and clothing and knowing the needs of what he created. Thank you dad for working so hard to always provide for us. There was never a shortage of Almond Joy's in my life or Denver Mints, Saltwater Taffy or hamburgers at the Country Club. You provided hotels(Four Seasons was my favorite), travel expenses, uniforms and equipment for all the years I competed in all those sports. You faithfully sat for hundreds of hours in all kinds of stadiums in all kinds of weather watching me compete. You provided every opportunity for me to excel in any endeavor I wanted to try. When life was beating me up I know I could come running to the corner where you stood and you would pull out the stool. I would plop down exhausted and worn from the fight and you would give me the pep talk I needed to go back and face life again. You have always been my wisest "Life Coach". From you I have learned to "be a duck" and to "pick up the smooth end and let the rough end drag." I have continued to move "onward and upward" even when life throws me curves.
Every father leaves a legacy either good, bad or indifferent. I pray that I have lived my life in such a way that it has honored you dad and made you proud. I pray the legacy of how you care for, encourage and love people continues through me.
Thank you for being my favorite only father. I am eternally grateful.
Love and hugs,
Your only daughter,
Linn