Who's Yo Daddy

How to pray. How swing a bat.  How to show respect.  How to do my best.  How to fish.  How to do math.  How to work. How to ride a four-wheeler. How to stay determined.  How to live the Gospel.  How to fix a flat tire.  How to shoot a basketball.  How to read.  How to stand up for myself.  How to admit when I am wrong.  How to laugh.  How to have faith.  How to love. 

These are just a few things that my dad has taught me. My dad is by far THE most amazing man I know.  I really am the luckiest girl to have a father that loves me as much as 'Big Wade' loves me. I always know that he will be there for me.  He will come and help me out when I let my car battery die, or lock my keys in the car twice within a week, or have to do my taxes, or need help to pay for school, or  just need someone to talk to.  

I love how everyone finds my dad super intimidating.  And yes, he is.  He is a large man that has a very tough guy look to him.  But really he is probably the nicest man I know.  Whenever someone needs help, he is there.  He is always lending friends money, or giving up his time to help someone.  

Many people ask me what my parents have done in order to have a family that is as close as mine and to have a family that tries to do what's right. My dad has never been super strict.  Don't get me wrong, if I do something stupid he makes sure that I won't do it again, but for the most part my dad has taught me by example.   I remember in a job interview once my employer asked me what some of my good qualities were. After I answered she then asked me how I acquired those qualities.  I told her by watching my Dad and the way he lives his life. 

My Dad has taught me to work hard for the things I have.  Because of him, I have learned the importance of hard work.  Whenever I complain about working I can most certainly expect his usual story of "I don't want to hear your excuses.  I remember picking up rocks on the dry farm in my sister's shoes..".  I have learned that I shouldn't complain as much as I do.

Big Wade is hilarious!  He is always making jokes and teasing people.  Not only that, but he always has to be doing something.  I think that every room in our house has been painted at least once if not twice in the past year.  He is always making up some new project to do. Sometimes he thinks that he is funny but he really is not, but it's funny because he thinks that he is funny.

My Dad is a spiritual giant.  He knows so much about the Gospel.  He has always fulfilled all of his callings and is always the one reminding us to pray.  His testimony is amazing and I know that He will always follow the Lord and His counselors.  I went through a pretty hard time in my life and looking back it started to get better right around the time my amazing Dad gave me a blessing.  My Dad honors and respects his Priesthood and I am able to reap the benefits from that.

My Dad is amazing for so many different reasons.  A few years ago he wrote me a letter.  Whenever I start doubting myself I will read that letter and it helps me out.  I hope he doesn't mind me sharing but in the letter he said, "I feel so lucky to have a daughter that I can completely trust...  I never have to worry about you."  Those lines have stuck with me for a long time.  I want to be a better person because of my Dad.  If you could ask me what the worst I could do is, it would be to know that I disappointed my Dad.  I look at my Dad and how much he loves my Mom and our family and it kind of makes me tear up.  He is the perfect example of a loving father, husband, grandfather, and friend.  

I love you Dad!