Happy Father's Day 2009

I managed to get one picture this father's day-not sure why. It was of Kendall and Keith on the screened porch at 9pm Sunday evening right after Kendall had her shower. It was a nice day and I have much to be thankful for. I have several wonderful dads and cherish each one.

My dad, who I didn't know as well as I would have liked until I was in my mid twenties, is one of the most caring, understanding, accepting, loving and loyal people I have known. I am so thankful to now get to visit with him each year (we are on a roll, dad!). I'm sorry we missed out on many years of close relationship, but am glad we can have that now. I love you, Happy Father's Day!

Riad, my stepfather is such a kind man. I love his Godly wisdom, his gentle way and the way he cherishes my mom (one of the best gifts you can give me!). I love his middle eastern cooking and he is now my sushi buddy. I love that he visits this area with work often, and that we get to visit frequently because of that! I love you, Happy Father's Day!

My dear Father in Law...who initially freaked me out when he yelled at me for putting lemon AND sweet-n-low in my iced tea...has so endearingly captured my heart. I am so blessed to have a father in law that I love and enjoy as if I've known him all my life. He is a great example in so many ways and I find him hillarious (now that he doesn't scare me any longer). I love you, Happy Father's Day!

And then there is my precious gramps. Though he is not my father, he was a consistent father figure throughout my youth. I spent as much time with him as I did in my own home thanks to us living in neighboring towns. He and my gram took me on road trips every summer to wonderful places. I always felt safe in his presence. He has the most mild manner about him, is so loving and kind. He is one of my favorite people on the planet. I love you, Happy Father's Day!

Finally, the father of my kids. Undoubtedly the best dad in the world. Keith is loving, patient, and involved with our kids. He knows "everything" and can do "anything" in the eyes of his kids. He always has time. He makes them feel important and special each and every day. He is teaching them about hard work, respect, integrity, honesty, kindness through his example. He makes an effort to take interest in their interests. He accepts them unconditionally. He has fun with them. He hugs and kisses them. They are the luckiest kids to have a dad like Keith. Happy Father's Day, honey. I love you!