my dad

This Father’s Day was extra special.

All 4 of us (children) were home.

and one precious grand-baby.

We enjoyed church together even though we were 10 minutes late and made quite a fashionable entrance into our very full church;)

We enjoyed lunch together.

But most of all, we enjoyed….

Riding the Tandem Bicycle together!!!

My mom got my Dad this great tandem bike from Hudson’s and we all had so much fun with it.

I haven’t laughed that hard in ages. My stomach still hurts.

As most of you know, my Father is my hero. He is the reason that I am alive and he is the reason that I have purpose and direction in my life today.

My Dad has always demonstrated what it means to truly have unconditional Love.

No matter how much I messed up, how disappointing my behavior was, how many ridiculously stupid stunts I pulled, my dad was ALWAYS there with open arms, encouraging words, and a hand to pull me back up.

I was not an easy child. I was headstrong, strong-willed, hyper-curious, convinced I knew more than he did—convinced I was in charge of my life.

The funny thing is…my dad never told me I was wrong. He never once belittled my dreams or put me in my place. He patiently smiled and listened to my ridiculous notions and lofty ideas.

I’ve only ever heard my dad raise his voice twice in my life that I can remember.

My dad is a family physician (for those of you that might be reading who don’t know my folks).  He’s been Meridian’s number 1 primary care Doctor for multiple years now.

My dad is a TRUE example of humility and wisdom.

My dad drives a 1989 Toyota Previa. It has no air. and hasn’t for years. I believe the radio went out about 8 years ago.

I’ve never heard him complain once about it.

Infact, all he’s done is make sure all 4 of us children have working vehicles that are MUCH nicer than his.

My dad doesn’t buy himself new clothes or shoes or gadgets. He doesn’t have any expensive vices. He runs long distances and reads history novels for fun.

I’ve never heard my dad mention anything he really wants (material wise) or been upset when something breaks or falls apart.

My dad is never in a bad mood. I don’t ever remember him being cranky, pessimistic, or angry.

I think one of the main reasons my dad is such an amazing person is because of his strong faith.

My dad is a born-again believer.

He spends quiet time in the morning reading the Bible and praying. He’s done this ever since I can remember.

He’s taught me a LOT of things…but the 2 things I remember most are this:

1)Trust in the Lord
2) ALWAYS tell the truth

I’ve always said (since I was a little girl) that I will never change my last name when I get married. and that’s because I honestly don’t believe that any guy will ever hold a candle to my Father. This could also be the reason I’m still single;)

He’s the most generous, compassionate, and humble person I know.

I thank God everyday (literally—EVERY day) for my dad. I don’t know how I got so blessed. I really don’t. but I know for sure that God knew exactly what He was doing when He put the two of us together.

Without a shadow of a doubt, I know that I am where I am, and who I am because of my Dad.

 below are random pics from the weekend

Getting ready for church in mom’s bathroom.

 

Tullah and Irwin

This photo sums up the 2 youngest perfectlyJ

Dad opening his gifts. 

My mom LOVES to hula-hoop! Thanks, Tara for the hoop! 

heaven

He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers ~~Malachi 4:6