It was a beautiful spring day, in 1972.

The very first time I ever laid eyes on you.

Like a twinkling star in a beautiful dream,

I gave you the nickname "My Shelly Bean"

As a gift from God, to share my birthday,

I treasured the time we could spend each day!

We took every moment that time would allow,

To collect all the memories, that I cherish now!

From donuts for breakfast, and a perm in your hair,

To giant apple pancakes and "Small World" daycare!

Elephant shows and "Little Bear"

The smell of baked apples that filled the air!

Hurrying home each day, to hold you tight,

Then a great big hug and a kiss good night!

Through the years we were together,

And the years we were apart,

We never stopped sharing that special piece of our heart!

Although the years came and went, in the blink of an eye,

There became a special bond between you and I!

Through problems we faced both great and small,

Where once was my little girl, 

Grew a woman, proud and tall!

While, laughing when you laughed,

And wiping the tears when you’ve cried,

I’ve watched as you’ve grown to a beautiful bride!

And to dreams of your own and conquering the world,

I risk the chance, of losing my little girl!

"Yet the hardest challenge, I have faced today,

I stood before "God" and gave you away!"

A difficult thing, for a father to do,

For you are my daughter, "I Love You"

So, the gift I was given, was never mine to keep,

But a challenge from God that I tried to meet!

Now, to fulfill your dreams, and to start a new life,

I gave you to Jason, to be his wife!

So noble I’ve been, and my daughter I let grow,

I Love You!