The Arrow Is Only As Good As Its Bow

"Our children take their flight into the future with our thrust and with our aim. And even as we anxiously watch that arrow in flight and know all the evils that can deflect its course after it has left our hand, nevertheless we take courage in remembering that the most important factor in determining that arrow's destination will be the stability, strength, and unwavering certainty of the holder of that bow" (Jeffrey R. Holland).

Today I want to take a minute to celebrate the "holder of that bow" for my children. I also want to thank him for holding it so firmly and with such steadiness over the years. With him in their world, my children have known a security that every child should have the opportunity to experience. Sadly, many do not.

When I was a young woman, my main ambition was to be a wife and a mother. Some of that desire was cultural, some generational, but I think the largest portion was spiritual. I simply longed to create, nurture, and raise a family. With that in mind, I was looking for a partner who would be solid and dependable, intelligent and ambitious, fun and funny, respectful and respect-worthy, committed and devoted. After all, I intended to be all of those things for him, so why should he not return the favor? (And be good-looking, to boot!)

I dated a lot of great guys, but not one of them even came close for me. When Dave finally hit the scene, I didn't have much trouble recognizing him for who he was and would be in my life. This guy was THE ONE, and he has spent the past 38 1/2 years proving the soundness of my judgment. He is the cream of the crop, and I have the privilege (and I know it is one) of being able to say, without reservation, that I would pick him all over again.

Dave is beloved by his wife AND his children.

From Matt:

These are my dad's qualities:

Dependability - can always count on him to show up

Athleticism - 60+ and still ballin'

Virility - has proven it 4 times, probably more... ;)

Integrity - great follow through, and not just his golf swing

Darn good dad

He is a great example and has provided me with a feeling of safety all my life. He is also a really good grandpa, who makes things feel special and magical (also did this as a dad). He has a great mustache that he should consider growing back. He has the ability to give VERY CLEAR AND CONCISE directions. ;) He will make sure you never get lost! (Translation from Sue: He...er...over-explains.)

Heather: Dad has been a wonderful example to Matt of how to be a good father, husband, and priesthood holder. He shaped the man I love. He is hard working and gives 110% in all he does. I appreciate his love for nature and his goal to visit all the national parks. It's so cute that he still plays ball with his "boys."

Karin: Dad has always brought a sense of security to my life. He has taught me what kind of person I want to be...and to work hard for what I want. My life without him wouldn't be as fun, and I wouldn't be as strong as I am today. I always thank my lucky stars that he is my dad. I love his creativity, his unconditional love, and his love for life. I always love his stories, too...and how much he loves and supports me in everything I do!

Bobby: Without Dad, I wouldn't have the love of my life. He is such a great example to me of what I want in my life, the love and respect of my family; and I want to start a family and have the kind of bond with my children that he has with his. I love his creative ideas for adventures for his grandchildren (ie magic trees, treasure hunts, etc.), his ability to make people comfortable with his friendly personality, and the fact that he's always interested in any conversation you may have with him.

Ryan: Dad brings an example and feeling of security to my life. Without him, I would not have a role model of how I should be. Some of the things I love most about him are his focus on our family, how hard he works for all of us and his ward (he's responsible), and how spontaneous he is with our vacations. ;) (Translation from Sue: He labors over every detail of every trip we take.)

Todd: Dad is dependable. I definitely wouldn't be where I am today without his support, financial and otherwise. It's fun to have a dad who played and introduced us to so many sports as a child...especially Lakers and basketball. It's also great that he can still play really well (considering his age). (Sue: Uh-oh, them's fightin' words!) I appreciate his intelligence, the good genes he gave me (I hope to look as good as he does when I'm 61), his kindness and selflessness (ie children first, he's never even had a nicer car than a Honda, which is unusual considering how well he's done for himself), and how generous he is with his time (always coming to sporting events no matter how busy he was, etc.).

Of course, his grandkids think he's pretty great, too.

Jeremiah: I love Grandpa because he's funny. He makes me laugh.

Carli: I love to go on Grandpa's hikes and treasure hunts. He's fun!

Bryce: I love when Grandpa takes me to the park.

Thanks for always catching the ball for us, Dad.

Even when we throw it kinda crooked.

We love you!

Happy Father's Day!!

♥