Dan just left work for work and I can't just don't feel right without a tribute to my own Dad on this special day. I have been thinking about the men in my life. Many people are, unfortunately, hurt by men in their lives. I am so blessed to have had nothing but strong men to look to as my own father and my grandfathers.
My mother's sweet father passed away when I was 14 so I didn't appreciate him the way I would now, but I know he worked hard for his family. He always provided for them in what they needed and they may not have had every luxury but they had a house full of love. I remember his laugh and the way his hugs felt. I remember how they would always be waiting up for us when we pulled into their home in Orem late at night and they would always stand outside and wave until we were no longer in sight as we said goodbye. I think he was just a sweet, humble man who had his priorities right in life and he didn't waste too much time on the things that don't really matter.
My father's father was truly a patriarch in every sense of the word. He sealed me to my parents and 21 years later sealed me to my husband. He stood strong and faithful in the midst of every trial. He led his posterity in righteousness, just as I imagine the humble strength Moses had as he led the Israelites across the Red Sea. As I knew him through my teenage and college years, I observed his spiritual strength and his unwavering faith. I sat at his feet and received my patriarchal blessing, something I truly treasure. I still think about him often and strive to be a granddaughter he can be proud of who stays true to my temple covenants and takes pride in the name I bear.
My own father. I could type for days and days and only scratch the surface of how I feel. Anyone who knows my dear father can attest to the fact that he is mighty. He is faithful. He is a strength to all those who know him. He is a strength to me every day in my testimony and in my desire to try a little harder and be a little better. I admire everything about him. He makes everything and anything fun. A dull moment is not to be had with my Dad around. He has always made sure I know I am special to him. To this day I will sit in his lap and give him a kiss on his cheek. It has truly been a treasure for me to be able to see him with Jude because I am able to catch a glimpse into the past of how he was with me as a child. So attentive. So loving. Always teaching, always adventuring. My dad takes care of me every day, even from thousands of miles away. I feel like I am always on the receiving end, but I will happily and lovingly take care of him every opportunity I get until one of us goes on to the next life. I like to think I get my passion from my Dad. Any trait I get from him I will gladly take. There are so many qualities I admire in him that I am striving to develop with him as my example.
Happy Father's Day Daddy! Your little daughter thinks you're the greatest. :)