Anthony Sleiman

Here’s to 33.

This year’s birthday feels a little different. It falls on Father’s Day, and with our baby Lily arriving in less than a month, I can’t help but look back at everything life has taught me.

These days, life feels a little calmer and slower. I find myself enjoying the quiet moments more instead of always chasing the next adventure.

I’ve found a love I never thought I would experience, and now I’m waiting for a new kind of love. The kind that already changed my life the moment I found out I was becoming a dad.

If I could leave a few lessons from these 33 years, they would be: love hard, laugh often, stay curious, seek fulfillment instead of acceptance, and enjoy life as much as you can. Some moments will be hard, but keep going. There is still so much beauty ahead.

Grateful for everything that brought me here, and even more grateful for everything that’s coming next.

Here’s to 33, and to my first Father’s Day as a dad-to-be.

And for all the dads out there, especially the girl dads, I’d love to hear your best advice.