Happy Fathers Day

I would like to start with a shout out to my Dad. He has always been the strong silent type even before his stroke. He never said much but he gave a lot. He worked hard every day of his life and he quietly helped so many people in need. I love that little Bradley has a stink eye look that reminds me so much of my dad. My favorite thing as a kid was to get on my jammies and lay on my dad in the space between him and the back of the sofa. There was no place in the world more safe. I love that even now with the use of only one arm he can hug me so tight that I feel safe like that again. I miss the Dad that he was, I am blessed for the Dad that he is. I love my Dad.

Next, a thank you to Brad. I thank you for being a great role model of a father and husband for Jared to learn from. You are so patient, so spiritual, and so loving. I cherish the insights that you have shared and the tenderness that you have with my children. I am honored to have my little boy named after you. He and Madeline are very blessed to have such a great Papa, and I am blessed to have such a great Father-in-Law.

And then there is the incredibly handsome father of my beautiful children. A year or so ago I made Jared a card for Valentine's Day and I was writing in it the things that I love about him and the next thing I knew I had filled up the entire inside and the back. I have to admit that I was a little surprised at my lengthy list. I was thinking about that list today. I think that I could easily double it just with the things I love about him as a father. Here are a few on my list.

I love that he takes the time to have fun with Madeline even if he is tired or busy.
I love that Madeline knows that if she ever has a problem that she can't handle that her big strong Daddy will deal with it.
I love that he won't let Madeline be mouthy to me.
I love that he intends to get up and help with the baby in the night.
I love that Madeline thinks she is so cool because he take her on dates more often than he takes me.
I love you Jared. You are the sweetest Daddy and Husband in the land.

I am truly blessed with wonderful fathers in my life.