Rodent Regatta

Though I just mentioned that daughter number three is headed for NYC, Dads have radar, sonar, satellite imaging and all manner of profiling, remote monitoring and ESP built into their instincts. For that reason, the Ten Rules for Dating My Daughter hold, even at this distance. [thanks to Kim du Toit for the link]

Daughter #3 has never liked being ”the baby.” She was convinced when she went into the seventh grade that she should have her own apartment. ”Independent” doesn’t begin to describe her.

This morning I put her on a flight for New York. She’s a professional ballet dancer and will be dancing for the next couple of months at American Ballet Theatre. She graduated from high school a year early by going to college to get enough credits. She turned professional immediately out of high school.

She’s now completed her fourth year as a professional ballerina. She danced with ABT a couple of years ago. She’s been invited back.

Yes, I’m a proud dad. She’s hit the big time. There are few places that rival ABT in the ballet world. It’s been an unbelievable experience to see someone discover their dream at age four and never once question their calling. She’s never needed coaxing or coercion to get to lessons, classes, rehearsals or performances. Few people love what they do more than she does.

Virginia Clark, you are in our prayers. We miss you already!

Now you’re twenty-two, and today you graduated from college. The emotions just never stop overflowing. I’m as proud of you as a dad could possibly be.

Most hours of most days you and your two sisters are lifted up in prayer as I try to imagine what you might be doing at that moment or what you might be going through. Know that those prayers continue for your happiness, your safety, your life’s direction and your relationship with God.

Thank you a thousand times over for the joy that comes from being your Dad.

It’s a great time to be in central Mississippi.

Spring is officially here. The weather is great. The pollen is beginning to clear up. Blooms are open. Spring game tail-gating has begun. Campus wi-fi offers full connectivity while enjoying the time away, but great distractions abound.

Next stop? Auburn.