My dad.....just a little late

My dad....where do I begin. I mean really, he's the man that made me a woman, genetically speaking. Hahaha....

But in all seriousness, I am very grateful for the father I've had all my life. And although I was not a perfect child, and he wasn't the perfect father, we've managed to grow up well :) Although I look like my mom, I am very much my father.

I'm grateful for the man that knelt beside me to pray when my mom had my sister. I will never forget the hard wood floors.

For the man who made a tire swing in the back yard for my sister and I to play in as kids. I think that was the best swing EVER!!

For taking me camping and fishing all the time growing up. I will never forget those early mornings, sitting on the boat, and watching Gidget swim halfway across the lake to join us.

For "teaching" me to swim at Cooper's Lake. Otherwise known as, "I'm throwing you and good luck" hehehe..... and for holding me tightly the day those boys drowned. I, only now having children of my own, can imagine the pain those parents felt that day.

For driving the bus on many LONG trips and chaperoning our youth trips. What an example you set for all of the kids I grew up with.

For holding me ever so tightly when Chris broke my heart the very first time. As I sat crying in my room, listening to the tape play a certain song over and over, you came in and just held me. There was nothing you could do, but give me the love that only a father can.

For the time you walked me back to my room at Glorieta and had to stop half way to throw up. It was so not fair for me to have to choose one parent to take with me in to town. I really wanted both of you to go with me because I was so scared.

For walking me down the aisle, not once, but twice. I had hoped the first would always be the last, but even when it didn't work that way, you supported me.....in more ways than one.

For being there when my kids were born. There is nothing like bringing a child in to this world and having my parents to see them from the very beginning.

Dad, I know I don't always say it nearly enough, but I love you. Just know that I can't imagine what life I would have had if you hadn't been my dad.

Happy (belated) Father's Day

Love you much,
Renee

so many things

You know, it's so hard for me to point out just one thing today for which I am grateful.

So today, it's a list:

For my husband who trains so hard and does his best at every race. I know this weekend after his race, his legs were so sore. But he pushed on and walked around with us and even went to the aquarium with us when his feet were just about to give way. I am so glad we did it though and had some great family time.

For Ryan, my older son. Every day is different with him. I never know where is brain is going to take me. I love watching him build things with his legos that he has collected. I am amazed at how he puts things he has imagined into a piece of art with Legos. WOW! I am so grateful he is also beginning to understand Christianity and the fact Jesus died on the cross for our sins. My heart just feels happy when I feel like he "gets it"

For Alexander, my little man. Words can't express the joy he brings to our lives. His laugh is contagious and his snuggles are priceless. Even though I had to cart him around Gatlinburg this week end a good bit, I wouldn't trade it for the world. And tonight as he wanted to wash dishes a song came on my iPod, "Never Grow Up" by Taylor Swift. This song talks about being little and parents not wanting you to grow up. "Oh, darling don't you ever grow up.....just stay this little....won't let nobody hurt you, won't let no one break your heart" Alexander turned to me and said, "that's what you say to us mommy"

And it's true. As much as I loved the baby stage, I am loving each stage of my boys' lives. It saddens me to think that Alexander will begin kindergarten in the fall of 2013 and Ryan will be in 3rd grade this year. But each age has it's own challenges and things to enjoy.

For my ability to work out. This weekend I saw so many overweight people walking around and it just broke my heart. It's not easy to get in to shape. I am the perfect example. But I did and now I can't imagine my life without being in the gym and working out every day. (PS, I'm now looking in to hip hop hustle training, woot woot)

And basically for my life and opportunity I have to live it. I pray each day that I will make an impact on some one in a positive way. I love being me. God gave me one life and one chance to live it. I'm trying my hardest to use it to the fullest extent.

What are you grateful for today?

Renee