Happy Birthday, Frank

When I first met Frank, I wasn't sure what to expect. I was still very sad and upset about my parents divorce, but had made the decision that I would meet him with an open heart.

The first time we met, Frank and my mom came up to San Francisco and took me out to lunch. We went to Kuletto's on Powell Street. I don't remember what I ate, but I remember showing them my new star tattoo. I remember how kind he was and how excited my mom was.

It's been about 8 years or so since that first meeting and I have grown to love and appreciate Frank for many reasons. Some of the many reasons are:

1. Frank is a very gentle and kind man.

2. His relationship with my mom has helped her to find herself again. She has blossomed and become a much happier, and relaxed person.

3. I was not sure what to expect out of my relationship with him. After all, I was an adult when we first met so the idea of "step dad" seemed pretty foreign. Frank has accepted me and my sister as his daughters and has provided for us as such. Without Frank's generosity I would not have had the financial means to return to SFAI and complete my BFA. That generosity is something that was not expected, and I don't know that it can be returned.

4. On my 30th birthday, he and my mom took Rebecca and I to Belize. Originally Aziz was going to come on the trip, but at the last minute was not able to. Aziz's ticket was not transferable or refundable, so they purchased a separate ticket for Bec. This was yet another incredibly generous act that really touched me.

5. Frank can talk for a solid 45 minutes about the various (fill in gadget here) with great interest and zeal. I am not sure why I find this so charming and funny, but I do.

6. Frank has worked as hard as I have to establish a great relationship between us. He values me as though I were his own daughter. This is not something he had to do- he chose to. I am very blessed to have him in my life.

Thank you, Frank. Thank you for all you've done for me, Rebecca and my mom. Thank you for taking care of my grandparents. Thank you for all your love and generosity. Thank you for being you and being a part of our lives.

Happy Birthday, Admiral.