Hannah,

Baby girl, today you turn 10 years old. I’ve been dreading the day you turn double digits because it means you’re that much closer to being a grownup. I’m unwilling to give up the little girl that came into the life of your mother and I 10 short years ago.

Every day you cease to amaze me with your love of life, your incredible mind that won’t stop working and your innocence that inspires me to look at the world without jaded glasses.

I love the way you will try new things after I hound you for days and I love even more the way you love them more that I thought you would.

You still run to the door and give me a hug when I get home from work or a trip and you still hop in my lap for snuggles. Never stop doing that.

You give your all when the time calls for it, and you know how to relax and chill out like a true Richter.

Your and awesome big sister and a true friend to everyone.

I can’t count how many people have said what a good kid you are. Every time someone mentions you, your mom and I can’t help but beam with pride.

You’re smart, funny, and have latched on to the sarcasm that your mother and I have flowing through our veins. I’m not sure if that last one is a good thing, but it sure makes for good times around the Richter compound.

The past 10 years have been an amazing journey. I can’t wait to see what the next 10 have in store for us.

Love,

Daddy