When my 12-year-old daughter, Charlotte, asked me what I wanted her to buy me for Father’s Day, I told her to save her money — but I would gladly accept something that she made for me.

So she made me a painting, and wrote me the following letter:

Thanks dad for always being at my games whether it be soccer or softball (my last year I think) and cheering me on.  I love it when you play catch with us on the beach, and throw the ball for us in the water that we have to catch (“Charlotte never misses”).

It’s memories like these that will be forever in my mind!

I also like it when you are down for playing games with us, like yahtzee (spell check!) or others.

You and mom both taught me how it felt to be loved.  Thanks for molding me into the person I am today.

And I know you know it but I love you sooooo much.

And I am forever grateful that you are my dad.