June 18, 2009

Happy Father's Day

I am coming to appreciate more and more the value of a father. Brian is a wonderful father to our little girl. She worships the ground he walks on. He is her best friend and her strength. Kylie has a little table next to her bed. On that table is two framed pictures of Brian that I gave her when Brian started working away from home a couple years ago. Today I tried to rearrange the pictures so they looked orderly and nice. She rushed over and said, "No mom, no! They have to be facing my bed so I can look at them. It helps me to not be afraid. I need to see my dad." Already Brian has laid a solid foundation with his daughter. Her world is not complete when he is away, no matter how I try to fill in. He is irreplaceable.

I really admire my own dad. Looking back I'm amazed that he would take his young daughter to football and basketball games or camping when he could have had a better time out with the guys. But he was also building a foundation that would last beyond the one night of fun. Over the years I have also appreciated the great talks that we have had. He has taught me eternal principles both in word and example. Our family has never been a touchy-feeling family, but my dad makes an effort to give me a hug every time he sees me, and that has become a cherished moment. I, like Kylie, have always taken an interest in what my dad was doing so that I could spend more time with him. He taught me how to use power tools, change the oil, change a flat tire, and how to beat someone up (always disable your attacker so he can't come after you). Sorry dad, these are the only pictures I have of you! :-) Serves ya right.

I also have a wonderful father-in-law. Brian will be quick to tell you that his dad is his hero. He is the hardest worker I know and doesn't quit until the work is done. He has instilled a sense of pride in working hard within his children, who in turn have become dedicated workers as well. I have admired his dedication to his family, especially to his wife. She is still his sweetheart after all these years. You will frequently hear him say things like: "Isn't she just the cutest thing?" and "I'm sure glad you talked me into marrying you." Brian loves to spend time with his dad on the farm. When the work was done and it was time to kick back, his dad would say, "It's Miller time!" and they would head into town to get something to drink--Mountain Dew, Pepsi, or Diet Coke. This was also referred to as a Beer Run. Brian has now passed that down to our child, who relishes in a Beer Run with her dad. They even sing a song. Brian fills up on Pepsi and Kylie chooses a slushi and usually talks her daddy into letting her get another treat. Thank you for being such great dads!

0 comments: