in the shade of an apple tree

 

as i have thought about the men in my life, much like the women, i am overwhelmed at the goodness and nobleness that surrounds me every day. the man closest to me right now is obviously my husband. despite my love, adoration, and infatuation with him the day we got married, i could not have imagined what an amazing husband and father he would turn out to be!  not only do i adore him but so do his three little kids and all his nieces and nephews!  i am so grateful to have such a genuinely good guy by my side who supports and loves me through my phases, whims, emotional breakdowns, and cheering me on! i love the memories that we are making together!

then, there is my dad. if you know me at all, you will know how i idolize my parents!  my dad is the epitome of strength to me.  he leads our family with love. gives guidance and insight without being overbearing.  he knows and loves the gospel inside and out. and on top of all that, he loves to play, laugh and really have a good time! dad used to come home from work early and take us all body surfing all the time!  we have endless memories at our beach house in st. francis and dad lugging that boat on his back and fishing until late at night during the elf run.  later on, dragging person after person around the lake all day in the boat while we all ski and wakeboard to our hearts content!  i love watching my kids with my dad. they all adore him! 'wampa' is always a hit. joshie LIVES for his grandpa! he is always headed his direction and loves to sit and play, eat and give him kisses.  grandpa also has a very special touch when it comes to putting joshie to sleep! dad, i love you beyond words! thank you for you love, example and support!

my only grandfather that i have known in this life is my ganksy!  ganksy is a legend among men - literally!! everyone who has ever known him has adored him.   ganksy loves all children and all children love him!  he plays and teases and tickles! i felt honored and privileged as my friends would beg to come over and play while ganksy and gramma were visiting. it wasn't until i was studying child development in university that i realized how way ahead of their time my ganksy and gramma were in their parenting methods!  it is amazing! i salute the captain!

to all of the men in my life,

i thank you and wish you all a fabulous fathers day!

i love you all best in the whole wide world - hooray!!!