My Dad

A lot has happened since my last post. Nearly a year has gone. I don't know where it went. The most significant thing this year is that I lost my Dad on June 1, 2011. He had a heart attack in April 2010 and we were blessed beyond measure to be able to spend another year with him. I had never experienced the loss of a loved one so close. The day that it happened, I felt a sense of peace that I have never felt before or since. I felt enveloped in the arms of Heavenly Father and I knew that he was aware of me and my family. My testimony that families can be together forever was solidified as it became very real.

I always wondered how anyone could possibly speak at the funeral of a parent, yet I felt an overwhelming desire to do it for my Dad. As I read his journal and my Grandma's personal history, words flowed onto the pages of my notebook and I knew exactly what I wanted to say and how to capture and portray who my Dad really is. As I stood before the congregation, I was able to deliever my message. I felt power beyond my own and I didn't cry until the very end. For those who know me, that itself is a miracle! It was an amazing experience I will never forget.

The last few months I have missed seeing him, talking with him, and listening to him. I miss going to their house and seeing him in "his" chair. I miss telling him about my life and watching him light up as he tells me how good I am at everything, how smart my kids are, etc. That's just the way he was, always so positive. I enjoyed sharing accomplishments with him because he was my biggest cheerleader. Many people feel like they can never live up to their parent's expectations - I have never felt that. I have always just felt loved and I am greatful for that.

I especially miss my Dad on Sunday nights and at conference time because he always made biscuits and gravy for all of us. I am just so thankful for the gospel and the memories that I have. I am thankful for the special relationship that I have had with my Dad thorugh the years. I know that I will be with him again one day and that brings me peace and comfort.