on turning 27

I grew up with a boyfriend. He was significantly older than me. His hands were big and strong, and I still remember being just tall enough to hug one of his legs, or get a ride on a foot. It was my dad. I don't know how the "girlfriend"/"boyfriend" terminology came to be, but I do know there's not a time in my memory when my dad was just my dad.

My dad and I are totally different people- I'm an overcommitted, type A, while my dad always takes time for a good rock in his rocking chair- but, I know without a doubt my dad shaped who I am. I see this most in who I chose to spend my life with. Jake has big strong hands like my dad. Jake appreciates taking time to sit and be together. Jake makes cheesy jokes like the ones I grew up with, and he laughs at his own jokes like dad does too. I admire their ability to sit and be. I envy the natural way with which dad and Jake both enter a social situation and are well-liked and loved (we type As are a bit more of a handful). I'm thankful for my dad's quiet and constant presence, and that is exactly what Jake brought to my life too.

Maybe, without knowing it, that's what the "girlfriend"/"boyfriend" terminology foretold: I am my mom through and through, and I was bound to choose to be with someone just like my father. My first boyfriend taught me who my last boyfriend needed to be. Of course.

Today is my first boyfriend's birthday. He always says he's turning 27, and who am I to burst that bubble? Happy 27th Birthday (again) Dad. I love you.