Today’s my dad’s birthday, and so before I start my regular routine of trying to call him and leaving voice-mails.

, I just wanted to put this out here where I know he’ll see it:

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Today’s post then  is a tribute to my dad.  Here are a few things I appreciate about him:      First of all,  I am proud to be your son.   Again and again, I meet people who know you,  who’ve spent time with you,  worked with you, and without fail, they tell me you are a man of integrity.

I appreciate the fact that you’ve made an intentional effort to express your love to all of us, even if you  sometimes have a hard time putting it  into words.   I appreciate the way you love and honor my mom.    Thank you.   You taught me to look a person in the eye when talking to him and the value of a firm foundation in a family.   You and mom gave me a rich spiritual heritage that has already show up in my children.    Well, that’s it for now.  Love, your son.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.  Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.  Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!”  Psalm 127:3-5

Love you dad. You are the best.