To my Dad...

Sunday was Father's Day and for me its a very bitter-sweet day. It's not the easiest of days but i am grateful that we celebrate the beauty of fatherhood. There is no greater responsibility than the role of a parent.


Memories of my Dad....

All growing up, I think every family has a certain place where they sit at the dinner table...well mine was by him. It was just my spot. Also in church, us kids would fight over who got to sit by Dad. We all knew if we could sit by him he'd rub our backs. We loved it when that happened. :)

When I was in junior high, I remember all the boys knew who my dad was. They would talk about him and say how huge he was. They all were so intimidated by him. He always got a kick out of that! those of you who knew my dad, he had this great sense of humor and could make anoyone feel welcome and comfortable in our home.

One thing that I admire most about my Dad is the way her served and befriended those around him. I grew to know the full impression and impact he had on others when he passed away. I feel so honored that I had such a kind, selfless Dad who never cared if you were a housekeeper at the hospital where he worked, a non-member, or a CEO of a company... He treated everyone the same. He loved people despite there imperfections. I have been so blessed by his example. it has truly changed my life and what I hold valuable. He has taught me to not be judgmental and search for the good in people.

My dad gave back more than he was ever given. He was the most generous Dad. I knew I could count on him when I needed help with anything whether it be financially, emotionally, spiritually, etc. He worked hard to give us the best of this life. I know that he lived for his family, to make us happy and strong in the Gospel.

He LOVED John Denver!!!!! ha ha We've always taken a roadtrip back to the Oregon Coast once a year to go camping with my extended family and without fail every single trip we had to listen to John Denver! It used to drive me absolutely nuts! I hated John Denver when I was younger... but over the years it's really grown on me! Instead of just my Dad singing the songs we would all belt them out and it made for some really good laughs!! :)

Probably the most memorable moments with my dad are when we'd have our lunch dates. Ever since I could drive I just loved meeting up with my dad at the Mckay Dee Hospital where he worked to have lunch. The food was great, and the company was even better. :) There is nothing better than having one on one conversations with him. We talked about everything under the sun.

Another Memory I have is not one of the easiest of times but one I will cherish for the rest of my life. I was able to go and sit with my Dad every time he had chemotherapy. Those were the best, hardest, happiest, saddest, inspiring talks we've ever had. I learned more about my dad in those few hours than I ever could of in a life time. I am truly blessed to be able to share that time with him. Dad, you are my hero.

I cherish every single memory I have of my Dad and there's not a single day that goes by that I don't think of him. It's a comfort to know that even though he's not physically with me, I KNOW that his main priority is still to his family. I love you so much Dad and miss you more than I can ever express! Happy Father's Day.