Father's Day 2013

I have been so blessed when it comes to the men in my family.  Not only my dad, but both of my grandfathers are still alive and well.

My dad has always been such an incredible example to me.  When I was a kid, I always wanted to be just like him when I grew up.  He is so hardworking, thoughtful, intelligent, humble, loving and generous.  And really that's just the beginning of it.  I remember him coming home from long (and when I say long, I mean REALLY long) days at work and just playing with us kids until it was time for bed.  Now that I'm a parent, I realize just how incredible that was.  My dad may have worked long hours, but my siblings and I NEVER felt like he did because when he was home, he genuinely LOVED spending time with us doing whatever it was that we wanted to do.  I could seriously tell you a myriad of stories about how incredible he is, but in the interest of time, I will just say that I still hope to be like him when I grow up.  :)

My Grandpa Collyer reminds me of my dad in so many ways.  Or maybe I should say my dad reminds me of my Grandpa Collyer. :)  He is like this quiet strength in the corner of my life.  He doesn't talk a lot, but I know he loves me.  And if you get him talking about his grand kids or his garden, he just lights up.  I love him, and am so proud to be his granddaughter.  

Just thinking about my Grandpa Timms makes me smile.  He is always up for a good time, and loves to tell you stories from the good old days, and listening to him makes me want to experience the good old days too!  He also just got a little dog and oh my gosh, seeing how much he loves that tiny thing just melts my heart.  I love him so much.

Today my sister-in-law reminded me that this week it will have been five years since Zeke passed away.  I couldn't believe it had been so long.  So much has happened since then.  So many things I wish we could have shared with him in this life.  Every time I remember that only one of my kids even got to meet him, it makes me want to cry a little.  But we find so much comfort knowing that we will see him again.  We love and miss you Zeke. 

My brother is so sweet and happy and caring and generous.  I swear that kid would give you the shirt off his back if you asked him.  And then he'd go smiling shirtless down the street, happy that he could help you out.  I sure miss having him live so close.  One day he is going to be such a great dad.

And my brothers in law, seriously, they are just awesome. I've said it before, but I really lucked out when it comes to in-laws.  I just love being around them.  They are so fun and thoughtful.  I really don't know how I got so lucky.  Any time we get together we have such a blast.  I love it.

And seriously I really could go on and on. I have some incredible uncles (both blood and through marriage) that probably deserve a post in and of themselves, but I'll leave it at that for now.

Finally, I cannot tell you how grateful I am that I get to be married to this guy.  (I'm pretty sure he's going to kill me for posting this picture of him).  Te he he.  He seriously is the greatest though.  I love him so much.  I love him for his faith. I love him for his loyalty. I love him for his sense of humor. I love him for how much he loves me and our girls.  I love him for his passion and enthusiasm.  I love him because he makes me laugh.  I love him SOOOO much.  I'm so glad he's mine.  :)

And here's a little video the girls and I made for Bart for Father's Day. 

I hope all you dads out there had the best day ever!