Father's Day

I am eternally thankful for the fathers in my life! Thanks to all of them, I am a better person.

I love my dad. I have too many fond memories to type up - but I'll write some down: graham cracker talks, softball homeruns (he always got a home run), our trip to Argentina, our yearly goal talks with incentives, the flowers after a school play, the "what should I wear" talks, graph paper and planning, priesthood blessings, dropping me off at BYU, working side by side, the infamous dollhouse, the blessings of my babies, the hand on my shoulder as we left David, laughs on long late night drives home from the cabin, his bang (that is sadly non-existent now) ... the list does go on and on. In every part of my life, my dad has taught me much with words and example, given advice, supported me, held me, and loved me. He is an excellent earthly father, and reminds me of my Heavenly Father.

I love Geoffee and my father-in-law, Bob Sr. They are fathers to me also, and they have each taught me as well. Geoffee taught me to relax... a bit - I'm sure he would still say, "Calm down" to me, and sometimes I remember to do that. He taught me to treasure moments, and to put my work or distractions aside and love the people around me. He taught me to be a little bit more like Mary in the Mary and Martha story in the New Testament. (He didn't know he was doing that - but he did!) Bob Sr. has given me a great gift - his son, my husband. Not only that, he has been a source of strength and example to me. He has taught me through his example to be thorough and to do things right. I love his faith and his strength in the gospel.

I love my husband. It almost doesn't need to be said, but actually, IT DOES NEED TO BE SAID! I love my husband. He is wonderful! He has inspired me to be better and loved me in all my moments, good and bad. He is an excellent father and through his example, he reminds me to play with the kids instead of just taking care of them. He is spontaneous and optimistic. I need that! He is so smart, and teaches me when we share scripture insights and ideas. I love his love. I need that too! Enough mush. I love him.

I love my Heavenly Father. I have had several times when I thought I was going to burst with grief, or break down under trials. With prayer, I have felt His love, and felt His warmth, and His arms encircling around me. I know He loves me, and I am thankful for His plan, His blessings, and His love. I am thankful for my testimony that He is my Father in Heaven, not just some distant godly being. He has given me everything, and I hope to give Him a portion in return, not just on Father's Day, but every day.

Happy Father's Day!