Old Dude (2.21.2019)

​Tomorrow is my dad's birthday. My dad, who I refer to as "Old Dude", is one of the most amazing people I have ever met. His dad got very sick when he was only a teenager, and he became the sole caretaker for his father, providing care for him until his very last breath at home. I don't think he ever really had time to grieve his father's death, as he became the "man of the house" and entire support system for his mother. He is extremely intelligent and is the "go to" for many of the manufacturing processes at the GM plant in Marion, Indiana. He is hardworking. He was worked 10-12 hours a day, 6-7 days a week for 35 years. Many of those hours were "put in" to help my sister and me go to college, to support our "4-H farm" and to make sure my family never had to go without. He has a great sense of humor and is an amazing husband. It has been awesome to watch my parents grow closer in the last few years, especially during their time on the boat here in St. Joe. He has the biggest heart. He gets so excited to see my nephews that he will not be able to sleep for days in advance! He asks about my "boys" every day and lights up every time he visits them. He takes pride in letting them outside and working on projects (like building a fence!) to make their lives a little better.

I am so incredibly grateful for my Old Dude (pictured below with my Lapua). I recognize how lucky I am to have such a loving father and role model. Who is someone you are grateful for? Take some time to let them know how much they mean to you!