Ode to Dad

Happy Fathers Day to all the AMAZING dads out there! Also, special shout out to my parents-happy 23rd wedding anniversary!

I'm dedicating this post to my wonderful father. This has been the first year that I haven't been home for Mother's Day OR Father's Day and I'm not happy about it. However, I'm glad I have modern technology to share my feelings about my daddy. 

At the beginning of winter semesters, I was challenged in my family class to pick one family member to strength my relationship with. My mom is my best friend and I talked with her daily and I always Skype with my little sisters so I picked my dad. I planned on calling him more often and actually talking to him more directly when I talked with the whole family. Three weeks later, I was in a car crash. I knew my parents felt helpless, as my dad (choked up on the phone) explained to me that if I had to stay overnight in the hospital, they'd be on the first plane they could. Over the next four months, I've had to deal with insurance and payments. Naturally, I grew closer to my dad, as we had to work things out. As time went on, I'd call him as well as my mom to cry on the phone and I knew he'd take a few minutes to give me advice. I probably talked to my dad about once a week, more than we've ever talked during my college career. I know I was inspired to strengthen my relationship with my Pops and am grateful that he feels like he can call me more often to tell me his accomplishments or when he needs encouragement. I'm sooo grateful for you dad, and now, just like all the cards I've made in the past...

10 things I love about my dad:

1. He is the hardest worker I know. From the time I was little to the last year at home, I've realized how hard my dad works...all for us. I looked forward to every night when he'd come home. I remember when he used to work in Chicago and I can clearly remember running to him when he'd come home on weekends and how excited I was for him to come through the door. 

2. He's the toughest man I know. Wow, growing up as a cowboy does something to a man! He gets right back up in the saddle, if he even falls down in the first place! 

3. Even though he's tough, he's the most sensitive man I know! My dad cries sooo easily, which he has passed onto me! I remember countless times that he's choked up and to me, it really shows that he cares (I'm choking up as I type this, lol). 

4. My dad is a great example to me of having the Spirit. I know he's not perfect but his testimony is strong and he is a worthy priesthood holder, somethingI respect  with all my heart. 

5. He knows how to have a good time. The first time my dad took me to youth conference while in the YM's stake president - Big Bear, I remember having the best time! I was obsessed with the song Airplanes, so we turned it on and he turned his hat side
ways, pretending to rap! Haha, I remember that so clearly! 

6. He has the greatest taste in music, which he passed onto me! We really connect through country music...and listened to Ice Ice Baby every Tuesday for a year, going to mutual! 

7. He has such a strong will. When my dad gets an idea- he does it, all the way! Not halfway, he goes all out. 

8. He loves and respects my mom. :) 

9. He's not afraid to share the gospel with all that he comes in contact with. 

And 10, the thing I tease him about the most- he is friendly and kind to ALL! He always calls waiters/customer service people by their name and can practically get anything he wants by showing genuine kindness. Even though I tease him endlessly, I love that about my dad. 

Happy Fathers Day, Pops! 4 days till I can give you your gift...my presence! Love you SOO much!