Happy Father's Day!

My Dad has been, and will always be, so many things to me. It's hard to put into just a few words, all the memories I have and how thankful I am for him. When I was little, one of my favorite things was going to McDonald's together, getting a happy meal, then feeding french fries to the seagulls. Seagulls that happened to hang out at the mall parking lot. I used to follow my Dad around the yard, asking him questions and learning about plants and gardening. I always wanted to cut the hydrangeas, roses and tulips. And he let me. I would bring him an ice cold Coca-Cola after he mowed the lawn. Even though it was the worst job ever, I helped by picking up sticks. I loved doing stuff outside, watching, learning and helping.

Dad's usually know everything, about everything. My Dad has certainly been my go-to guide for everything - cars, art projects, Bible questions, choosing schools, computers, travel, you name it. He is a wealth of knowledge and life experience. He taught me how to ride a bike. He went with me to get my first car. He even let me practice driving with my permit....once (I may have gotten a little too close to some branches on the side of the road). The photo above was taken at a family bowling night.

My Dad was also my Pastor. He taught me not only about life, but about what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. The greatest gift a parent can give to their children. My Dad has always been the most influential teacher in my life. I admire the gifts God has given him to minister to others and teach the Word of God. I am thankful that I "grew up in the church" and was given a Biblical foundation and guidance from godly parents.

I had the privilege of going on two overseas missions trips to India with my Dad. He has a heart for missions, especially India. Both trips were life changing for me. It was very special to experience that with my Dad. We encountered so many people, places, sights, sounds (and smells) I had never known. I won't ever forget the time we were given murky swamp-green spicy (so-hot-there-are-tears-in-your-eyes) fish soup in one of the village homes. Seeing the look of fear in my eyes, my Dad offered to eat my portion so we didn't offend the host. That's love right there! 

When I finally found "the one," my wonderful husband Andrew, my Dad performed our wedding ceremony, which made our day even more special. This photo above was taken at my cousin Amanda's 2006 wedding, in California. We visited my Dad and Mom at their new home in Arizona, and took a road trip to Anaheim. Six hours in the car, stopping at rest stops with rattlesnake warnings - good times!

There is definitely a unique relationship between Dad's and daughters. I have come to appreciate my Dad more and more with each passing year. Looking back, he has always wanted the very best for me, and I didn't always see that. I love my Dad tremendously and thank him for being who he is.

I love you Dad! I hope your day is filled with relaxing backyard moments like these.