The Dad's in My Life

For Father's Day, I thought I'd do a little tribute to the 3 most prominent dads in my life. I know I didn't do this for Mother's day, and I apologize to the mother's for that, but at least you got your gifts on time, which is more than I can say for the fathers. So in no particular order, here are the dad's in my life.

First, of course, my Dad

This is my dad. He is wonderful. He is the first dad I have ever known, and is a great example for what a dad should be. He helped raise and provide for 7 children with my mom, and did a great job. The picture in my mind that I see when I think of my dad is him sitting in a rocking chair, reading a book, with a cat sitting in his lap. He has always been a big reader for as long as I remember, and had a big collection of western and fantasy books in our house. He is also a big teaser. I have so many memories of whisker pies, tickle attacks on my "ribbies" (which by the way, I call my own kids ribs while I tickle them), and laughing and screaming until my mom couldn't take the noise anymore. I remember the teasing continuing at church during sacrament meeting until mom threatened to separate us. He definitely always made life fun. Thanks Dad, for making growing up a lot more tolerable! You put up with a lot of stuff from this child, and I greatly appreciate all the lessons you taught me, and everything you have done for me. Thanks for showing me what it means to be a wonderful father so that I could look for those characteristics in my own husband! Thanks for being a great man, and a wonderful dad! I feel honored that you are my dad!

Second, Scott's Dad, Ross

Not the second dad I have ever known, but a great one! Although he is very different from my own dad, Ross is also a great example of what a father should be. He's extremely patient, kind, and quiet. When Scott and I were dating I would say, "Why is your dad so quiet?" I thought it was because he didn't like me, but it turns out, he's just a quiet guy. I soon learned that once I got to know him a little better he seemed a little more outgoing and has a great sense of humor (very similar to Scott). He's also very giving. He's always quick to help us with anything we need, whether it be putting in a sprinkler system, giving us financial advice, and even buying our house when no one else would! He's also more than willing to share the Bear Lake trailers with us plus all the fun toys there, and even encourages us to take advantage of his generosity (which we try to do as often as we can). Thanks Ross, for being such a wonderful example to Scott and helping to shape him into the man that he is. I truly appreciate everything you have done for us in these last 7 years (and Scott's entire life), it is a pleasure to call you my father-in-law.

Third, my husband, Scott

Last, but definitely not least, is Scott. What can I say about the person I love most in the entire world. I couldn't ask for a better husband and father to my children. I can't imagine ever living my life with anyone else. Scott is an amazing father. He is fun and plays with the kids and tells them he loves them everyday. He is compassionate and patient with them, even when they are being completely ridiculous and illogical (as all children sometimes are). He changes diapers, and cleans up under-roos when there has been an "accident". I mean really, what is better than that?! He helps put the kids to bed every night, making sure they brush their teeth, even the back ones! He fixes all their broken toys, replaces batteries, and plays Lego Star Wars with Corbin, even when its the last thing he wants to do. All the kids think he was put on this earth just to play from the minute he walks in the door after work, until the minute they go to bed at night, and he's happy to oblige. Thanks Scott, for being such a fantastic father to our children. I know you are setting such a wonderful example for our boys so that they too can be fantastic. I appreciate all the things that you do for our family that I did and didn't name. You AMAZE me! I love you with all my heart!

Happy Father's Day!