This year has been full of some of the most glorious ups and heart-breaking downs I've experienced in my life. Moving to California, an amazing new job, a St. Patty's Day bike wreck, meeting fantastic new friends, getting our bikes stolen, and moving to San Francisco. No matter what I'm doing, my parents have always been the type to let me, and my 2 brothers and sister, make decisions and figure things out on our own. They've always supported us and encouraged us to take any opportunity that arises — whether we think we're qualified for that opportunity or not. Because of this, it's been difficult to accept that plural parents has been made singular.
So here's to my dad. The man who encouraged me to take risks, believe in myself, and break rules (in a good way). He taught me that if anyone ever tells me I can't, I have the ability to prove to them that I can. Life is short. Make it count. I love you dad.
While we didn't take family photos often (our last family picture was taken in 2008), this one was taken May 22nd on the weekend of my youngest brother's graduation. It's casual, and I may be biased, but I think this is perfect.