This morning at mass, when it was time for the Sign of Peace, the parishioners in front, in back, and to the side of me offered an alternative greeting. Instead of the standard “Peace Be With You” they each looked me in the eye with a big smile and said “Happy Father’s Day!”

To be recognized as a dad was very special. After years and years of celebrating the day in the name of others, I was one of the celebrated.

Before I jumped in the shower to get ready for church, Sidney and Sloan called me out to the living room. When I stepped out of the bedroom, Sloan was “holding” a card for me. It was from both her and Sid. I read it aloud, emotions creeping up on me with each word.

Sloan gave me my Father’s Day card.

On my inaugural Father’s Day, I just want to thank my two girls. First, thank you to Sloan. She made me a daddy! On March 17, 2017, my life changed forever. When she arrived, I was no longer just a regular dude. I was a dad. No one will ever be able to take that title away from me for the rest of time.

Sloan and mommy picked out a great card.

Second, thank you to Sidney. She gave me the single greatest gift in the world and, believe me, she worked extremely hard for it. I will never be able to adequately express my gratitude to my best friend for giving me life’s best blessing.

Sidney wrote this sweet Facebook post for me today. The photo was taken right before we left for church.

Happy Father’s Day to my dad, my father-in-law, and my two brothers-in-law. It is an honor to join your prestigious club and there isn’t a moment that I don’t consider myself lucky. Don’t Blink.