Happy Fathers Day, Daddy!

Daddy,

I started to write a post about you, and my eyes welled up with tears.  You're just that good! After all, you are the man that taught Tiff and I that:

. . . We have to develop our own unique relationships with God. You have an awesome and refreshing way of thinking about God! That's why people follow you.  That's why you reach people who haven't experienced God's love

. . . Good husbands love their wives.  I mean really love them.  Befriend them and laugh with them.  Apologize to them when they cross the line. Honor them in public and in private.  Cover them.

. . . Real men know how to show emotion.

. . . Dads always handle their responsibilities.

. . . Parents can disagree, but not judge.

. . . I can be anything I want to be.

. . . Leading a family is all about sacrifice.

. . . When things aren't right, look at yourself and make changes.

. . . Always be ready to cut a rug! ;)

I'm going to stop here because I feel like I'm on the verge of an ugly cry.  I know you and mom are probably getting ready for church.  The congregation will probably give you gifts and say kind words, and they should.  But trust me, none of them know you as a father like Tiff and I do.

So today I am celebrating you from far away. I wish I was there. I wish I could hug you and smell your skin and rub your head.  I could use a boost of encouragement from you right now. Just know that today I'll be plugging away on this dissertation, the dissertation that is totally dedicated to you to earn the Ph.D you encouraged me to pursue,.

I love you with more love than a post could ever hold.

Miss you terribly.

TJ