If you've ever had the pleasure of meeting my dad, you know he's one-of-a-kind. Here are a few of the things I've learned from him:

-Try new things. He's always up for something new or different. Both of my parents did a great job of teaching me to be adventurous.....go new places, eat new things, talk to new people. I've learned it's your life experiences that help shape your person. One of my favorites: he and I jumped from an airplane at 13,000 feet the summer before I got married--it changed my life (but not in the I broke my neck kind of way).

-Don't complain. He's never told me not to (that I can remember), but I've learned (or am learning) by example, that griping never gets you anywhere. Right now, Paul is telling me to "learn faster".

-Serve my children. My dad has done, and will do, anything I ask of him. He has never acted like me, or my requests are a burden--and now that I'm a parent, I realize that it must have taken an enormous amount of effort.

-Be prepared. Plan ahead. A fully stocked emergency kit barely scratches the surface of the things this man has thought of, and probably has with him.

-Laughter is the best medicine. He's really funny (I think) and has some great stories...and he loves to tell them!:) But, he's also just light-hearted in a way that people appreciate.

In a country full of irresponsible, selfish, and absent fathers, I am beyond thankful that my children have a different reality than most. Paul loves them, and their mother, sacrificially, provides beyond their needs, and leads them well. Clearly, Garrett and Lilah adore their daddy and I am so proud of him for the great job he's doing!

Happy Fathers Day!! Please pray for my grandpa and Paul's dad, who are both in nursing homes, to know, and rest in the Lord's peace.