Today Ellie is 18. No matter how many times I say that today, it doesn’t feel real. The fact that she has been so mature for so long doesn’t make it any more shocking that today she is an adult.

When I started going through images for today’s blog post, I ended up with thousands that I wanted to put on here. That’s not an exaggeration. I’m really thankful I’ve had a camera in my hands for most of her life. One, I have a terrible memory but photographs help me remember. And two, she is so beautiful and kind, which shows itself in pictures.

Ellie is 18. And today she is celebrating at in Paris at the Eiffel Tower. I couldn’t have written a better story if I tried, as the Eiffel Tower has had such a special meaning to her all her life. I’m thankful she has been able to travel the world, thankful for her family who helped raise her, and thankful for the young woman she has become.

While I’m a little more than twice her age, I can’t think of any words of wisdom I could give her. Sometimes, she sees life better than I do. And she definitely has a great head on her shoulders. The person who started out as a goofy and kind little girl has grown into a goofy and kind young lady. I wouldn’t change a single thing about her.

I have no doubt that Ellie is going to do great things as an adult. She has already done great things. I will, no doubt, continue to be a proud dada as she navigates life.

If you’ve followed my blog from the beginning, you’ve had the wonderful privilege of watching Ellie grow up. From trips to the American Girl store, to trips to the beach. From dance recitals to fundraisers after the Joplin tornado. From daddy daughter trips to becoming a big sister. This blog, as much as it’s been a destination to publish my photography, has also included the story of Ellie’s life.

Ellie is 18, and she has made the most of it all. Always the encourager, the listener, the great dresser, and the very best parts of me. She is pretty much the best thing the world has to offer. And I am so fortunate I get to be her dad.

Happy birthday Ellie! I sure love you.

Talk to you soon,
Dale