Today is my Dad's birthday. I've spent the last few weeks reflecting on what a remarkable man he is. He is kind, tries to lead by example and as he says would not only die to protect his children or grandchildren, he would kill to protect them too.
I believe that with every ounce of my being.
Before my sisters came along, it was just me and Dad (and Mom too of course). My dad was my buddy. We did so much together. I remember so many fun times there are too many to mention. My favorite however was the time his beloved Camaro broke down when we were on our way home on Christmas. We had to walk in the dark. I had one of those dolls with the pink heart in her chest that lit up. I kept making her glow so we could 'see' the whole way home. I have spent my entire life being scared of the dark (I still am). That night, I wasn't scared.
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| Me and my dad |
My dad has always known when to work and when to have fun. I wish I could say I inherited that from him... I haven't. I would much rather have fun all the time. ;)
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| Believe it or not,, this man is one of my heros! |
Seeing my dad as a fellow adult and a grandfather to my children has taught me so much. I have learned that no matter what my children do I am still going to bend over backwards to help them. I have learned that you don't give up on your kids no matter how many times they break your heart (I haven't experienced this one yet but I'm sure it's coming) and I've learned that it's okay to make mistakes as long as you start fresh tomorrow and try to get it better the next time.
Even though my dad isn't a member of the same church I am, I have always seen him as an example of what our Heavenly Father's love is like. I came across this poem a while back and it took me back to my childhood with my amazing dad.
My Father
By Barbara J. Porter
My father’s feet will lead me
in paths I know are right.
My father’s knees will bend with mine
as we say prayers at night.
My father’s lap will hold me
when I need a place to rest.
And when I’m sad, I like to lay
my head upon his chest.
My father’s hands are big and strong,
and they work hard for me.
My father’s arms can lift me up
so I may better see.
My father’s lips will speak to me
with words of truth each day.
My father’s ears will listen
to the things I have to say.
I like to sit so very still
and look into his eyes.
I know he understands me,
and he is good and wise.
I’m glad I have a father
who guides me with his love.
He helps me better understand
my Father up above.
(Friend Magazine LDS services June 1995)
Happy Birthday to my wonderful father. A man who will always have a special place in my heart. A man who still makes me smile when I do well by saying "good job kid". I can only hope my children learn as much from me as I have from him.
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| My mom wanted a prince charming on a white horse...instead she got this guy riding a rocking horse waiting for her on their wedding day. |
Now will someone please teach my wonderful dad how to operate a computer so he can read this!!
;)
