For my Dad

Since I am so forgetful and didn't get anything in the mail for my Dad in time for Father's Day, I thought I would write this post about some things I admire and love about my Dad.

1. His love for and commitment to my Mom. There has never been once in my life where I have ever doubted that commitment. They are going to be celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary this September, which is pretty cool. Even cooler is the fact that we all get to celebrate together in San Diego :) My Dad has been an incredible example of sacrificial love towards my Mom. I see him sacrifice his own desires for hers continually.

2. His commitment to the church. My parents have faithfully served at the same church since I was born...and then some. That is really something especially in an age where people are going from church to church because they don't like the color of the building. I am thankful for his example of commitment to the most important thing we can be committed to on this earth.

3. His singing. Recently, we had a ladies fellowship for church and we each shared our favorite hymn and why it was our favorite. My favorite hymn is "Great is Thy Faithfulness", and the reason for that is that I can remember my Dad singing that one a lot growing up. One of the ladies told me I needed to tell my Dad that, so this is my opportunity to do that. That wasn't the only song he would sing, but that's the one that sticks in my head the most.

4. His generosity. My Dad is very careful with his money and has always wanted to find the good deal....but when it comes to using his money for others, he is one of the most generous people I know. There are countless things that we enjoy or have enjoyed because of him.

5. His love for my boys. I can't think of too many things I like seeing better than watching him interacting with my boys. He loves them, and they love him, and there is so much joy in seeing that. We will be going to Seattle this July and Emmory cannot wait, he asks me every day if it's July yet :) (And Evan will be thrilled when we are there, but of course is clueless at this point).

6. His strength and faith during trial. Over two years ago, after a routine physical, my Dad was found to have a higher than normal psa level, and it was confirmed that he had prostrate cancer. He had surgery to have the prostrate removed, everything seemed fine for a while, then last year his psa was elevated again, the cancer grew back, so he went through radiation and hormone therapy starting right before Christmas and ending in April. He had to drive to the clinic every single day during the week to get his radiation during that time. He stayed strong and steadfast, he was often singing hymns on the way to and from his appointments, and praying while having the radiation treatment done. Now, after having finished, his first psa test showed to be undetectable, to which we are so very thankful!

Of course, that is just brushing the surface. I was so very blessed to grow up with such a loving Dad who was committed to caring for our family, and I am still so very blessed to be able to enjoy spending time with him now that I have my own family.

I love you Dad!