in his free time he loves to fish.

One thing I've always loved about my dad, is that he knows how to work hard and he knows how to relax, have fun and make the best of his free time too! 


I love all these photos that my sister took of my dad while they were out fishing this summer. Especially the ones of his hands up close, working with the fishing line and letting the line out into the water. These images are very familiar in my mind all the way back to when I was little, but the pictures make the memories that much more meaningful!

Celebrating Grandpa's Birthday

My Dad's Birthday was back on October 18th, we all gathered around at their house to celebrate with lots of desserts and goodies!!!

Steve -n- Kim's kids all came up with a great "All About Grandpa" birthday poem that had us all in the giggles!!!

Tanner thought it was funny when he blew the candle out through the side of his mouth, so he made him light it up again so he could try it too!

Happy Birthday Dad

We love you very much

and your silliness too!

What a day..

I awoke this morning to a winter wonderland blizzard out, and feeling ready for the new day and to accomplish many things I need to get done. Soon after getting all the kids off to school, the phone rang and it was my Mom. She was calling to tell me that my Dad had been told that he has prostate cancer. For that I was not prepared... but are we ever? I knew that he had recently had a biopsy taken and I kind of had a feeling; but I was hoping for the best. A sudden sadness swept over me.

I was amazed by my Mom's calmness and strength, although I'm sure she was very worried inside. I prayed that she would comforted. She said that they would be going to an appointment later today to discuss the specifics and available options. I prayed of course for the best possible outcome. That it would be removable/treatable and that my Dad's time on earth would be preserved with quality of life. Sure he has his faults; but overall he is a great man with many exceptional qualities and much wisdom that I so want my children and even myself to continue to learn from as the years go by. I'd like to see my parents have more time together here with their children and their grandchildren, and to cultivate their own relationship too. Of course, I recognize that these are all "my" wants & by the Lord's will, things will be done. So I prayed for strengthened faith and understanding & trust in Him. While I still had hope in my heart for the things which I prayed for.

The day went on and finally I received a call from my Dad. He was very optimistic and cheerful, as usual.. and said that everything was going to be fine. They found only a tiny spec of it and he is scheduled to have it removed in April. His exact words were, "Yah I told 'em, Well why wait... Let's just get in there, cut it out & throw it away!" Because the doctor told him that it was so small that it may never escalate into anything for 10 years, so one of his options was to just wait and have regular check-ups every 90 days. That's my Dad, he's always able to add a little good humor into any situation.

So at the end of this wintery day, I must say... We are blessed and our prayers have been answered!