My Dad

It's funny how you think many things, but often they don't make it onto paper. Actually, I think my family is pretty good at expressing love, and we're pretty good about writing notes and things, but I don't think I've taken the time to share publicly how cooooool my dad is.



My dad rocks! He is often called "the life of the party." He is quick to laugh, ALWAYS has a joke ready, and loves to share his quick wit in conversations. He is jovial, fun, and a great joy to be around.



My dad is smart. He is an attorney by profession, but his wisdom extends FAR beyond his book-learning. He is "people" smart. He is a genius with others and really knows how to love. He is fun in his office and when I meet his clients, they rarely tell me that they met my Dad without adding how much fun they had with him and telling what a wonderful man he is.



He loves his family. My dad shares that his parents RARELY used the words "I love you" with him, but I can't imagine being with him that he doesn't hug me or tell me that he loves me. He is free with his emotions and makes sure that we all know that he loves us.



My dad serves. As a small example, when we visit their home, he is ALWAYS at the door helping carry out small children or bags of our "litter" to our car. It was especially apparent when I was pregnant, and he wouldn't let me carry anything! Even when he's at my house and I have heavy things to carry, he, with his "bad knee" will heft things up my garage stairs to help.



Dad is a great GRANDPA!!! My kids LOVE him. He is a bit of a tease, and likes to tickle, excite, and surprise all of the grandkids. He's good at letting us know if we need to watch the kids, but rarely gets after the kids himself when they need to be calmed down.



Dad likes to be with others. If we're all together, and someone has to run an errand, he's quick to jump in the car and go along. He's quick to pick up the bill for treats and other outings, and is extremely generous. From my very early years, I learned that Dad would do anything for us. He really, honestly, just would love to shower us with everything he could. Secretly, he would spoil us all if he could. He is so giving.



My Dad is a giant. I have watched him for years take the "high road" in ways that I often couldn't understand. He has been the champion of the underdog, and has a real understanding and love for those who need an extra push. He has given of himself in church, family, private, and even professional matters.



My dad is a teacher. He has lived life...and I mean that in a way that only those who have lived that roller-coaster life full of ups and downs can understand. He has seen the highest of highs, and the lowest of lows, but ALWAYS comes out on top. He has wisdom to share, and experiences to offer. He wants the best for his friends and family, and hopes they can learn from his life.



My Dad is my friend. I love hanging out with him. He has achieved that delicate balance between father and friend, and knows how to be both, without being "too much" of one or the other. He knows when to back off, he knows when to jump in. He knows just the right things to say.



I am blessed. Yesterday at Youth Conference, youth were asked to name something that can be "hard" in their lives. One girl said, "Parents." I simply cannot relate. This isn't to say that mine are perfect by any stretch...nobody's are. But mine try, and they try perfectly, and that's what really matters.

I appreciate what a "glue" my Dad is in our family. He likes a good party, he often initiates get-togethers (especially when they involve restaurants ;) ) and is right in the middle of every discussion.



My Dad has a testimony. Together with my mom, he taught me that participation in the church is not optional. We don't question our leaders, we just do what we are asked to do. We keep the Sabbath day holy. We are honest with our fellow men. We try to help others. We work together as a family to help each other out. When somebody needs help, we are ALL there to shoulder the load. I learned these things from him.



Dad, you are amazing. You can't fit a heart-ful of gratitude on paper, but I know you know how much you are loved. You have achieved with your family what eludes so many. You and Mom have kept us together as friends through the years and years of family activities and outings. You continue to keep us together, sometimes at the sacrifice of a clean yard, or child-proof home, but your example will be felt for generations.

Happy Father's Day!