Proud Father

As I sit writing, a photo album lies across my lap. Within its pages, the story of a beautiful young lady unfolds. This young woman is my daughter Aleksandra. I can not call her a little girl anymore, though in my heart she will always be just that. The story begins at her birth, then continues through the years, with birthdays, Christmases, summer vacations, and other special occasions. So far, this album tells the story of the past 24 years of this young woman's life. There have been ups, and there have been downs. There have been laughs and smiles, as well as frowns and tears.

A new chapter to this album is about to unfold very soon. On the 22^nd of January, 2011, my daughter's boyfriend proposed to her. My daughter has happily accepted. I do have to say that I have been waiting for this day a long time.

Aleksandra met this young man 10 years ago in high school. His name is Darrin. For Darrin, it was love at first sight. For Aleksandra, it took a bit longer. Darrin pursued her months, before she finally said that she would go out with him. It was first love at its finest. Their love has grown and matured, as they have grown and matured through the years. Now 10 years later, the time has finally come for them to take the next step in their loved bliss.

I think to myself “Where has the time gone?” There is a song sung by Kenny Loggins called “Turn Around” which expresses my feelings perfectly.

Where are you going, my little one, little one,
Where are you going, my baby, my own?
Turn around and you're two,
Turn around and you're four,
Turn around and you're a young girl going out of my door.
Turn around, turn around,
Turn around and you're a young girl going out of my door.

Where are you going, my little one, little one,
Little dirndls and petticoats, where have you gone?²
Turn around and you're tiny,
Turn around and you're grown,
Turn around and you're a young wife with babes of your own.
Turn around, turn around,
Turn around and you're a young wife with babes of your own.

I would like to say that I feel like the proudest father on earth. I am overjoyed to see my daughter getting married. I share the joy that fills my heart, with all of you today.

As I close my photo album, I know I will be re opening soon to put in photos of the continuing story of my daughter's life. I also know that in years to come, I will look into this album and reminisce.