My dad was on the BYU gymnastics team. Pretty cool, huh? I think so. He has always been in incredible shape and even now, in his 60's, other guys are jealous of his physique when he takes his shirt off at the beach. I love this picture of him!
Here's my dad in the middle of his brother and sister. Was he not the cutest little boy?! It's no wonder he has 36 adorable grandchildren! (yes, my five included)
I was a lucky girl to get to grow up as one of his seven daughters. My dad was a busy man with eleven children, a thriving orthodontic business, and demanding callings in the church, but somehow he still had time for me. I remember countless hours playing basketball and football with my dad and siblings. I have many fond memories of boogie boarding at the beach alongside my dad. And I was blessed with the opportunity to work as his orthodontic assistant for years and years. Those are cherished memories because I got to see my dad in action as what I like to call, "the world's best orthodontist" and it gave me lots of one on one time with him.
I will always be grateful for a father who lead us in family prayer, family scripture study, and family home evening. I believe our family is incredibly close and strong today because my parents were diligent in those three things. My dad was always so good at coming up with an FHE lesson on the spot, complete with interesting stories and then making it applicable to us. (I'm sure there were plenty that weren't "on the spot", too!) He is a worthy Priesthood holder and has pronounced many blessings upon my head that I will always cherish.
We don't get to see him as often as we like living so far away, but when we do my children just love to be around him. Here is just a "snapshot" of my dad surrounded by some of his children and grandchildren. What a posterity he has created! (Make sure to double click to see it better)
Happy Birthday, Dad! I hope you know how much I love you and appreciate you and miss you. Have a wonderful day and know that this little family of seven wishes we could be there to smother you with hugs and kisses on your birthday! (photo taken in 2005)
