Happy Birthday, Danika: 11 Years of Creativity, Passion, and Love (With a Healthy Dose of Attitude)

“I got you, Dad.”

Her little hands wrapped around mine, but her presence wrapped around me with warmth and calm.

I was having an AuDHD meltdown, though at the time, I didn’t have language for it or even a diagnosis. The little three-year-old snuggling up against me had never heard the words autism or ADHD. She couldn’t possibly understand what was happening.

But she sensed something. She knew I needed kindness. She responded with compassion.

This is one of the clearest showcases of who Danika is: someone who can read people even when they think they’re hiding it, and who instinctively moves toward healing and strengthening those who are hurting.

Of course, there is so much more to this very special girl whom I have the absolute blessing to call my daughter.

She is passionate.
She is creative.
She is perceptive.
She is mischievous.
She is silly.
She is insightful.
She is innovative.
She is charismatic.
She is a storyteller.
She is an animal lover.
She is energetic.
She is a pattern seeker.
She is a problem solver.
She is a born performer.

She is Danika.

I am inspired and enriched by her every single day. My job as a parent is to care for and guide her, but she has shaped and taught me just as much.

I carry a magical cavern full of treasured memories. Some, at the time, didn’t seem quite as delightful, like walking into a room to find a salted couch, or a naked girl covered in lipstick proudly declaring she was “pretty now.” But now, they all make me smile.

I am amazed watching her grow into someone with remarkable insight and perspective, someone who constantly dares to find a more unique way of doing things. She has shone as an actor, cellist, and artist. She is the kind of person who leaves a positive imprint on everyone she meets.

I’ve always felt a special connection with her through our shared imagination and joyful quirkiness.

I love this bright, unique girl. She is a true gift in my life. I am so excited to see where our adventures go next.

I love you, Danika. Happy 11th birthday. You make the world more entertaining, magical, and loving.