Growing up, and even in the recent past, my mom has told me, “You are just like your Dad….”
Man, what a compliment.
My Dad is one of my heroes. It’s no secret that I adore him. I’m proud of his accomplishments throughout his career, but I’m even more proud of the man he is personally. Here’s a few things that I love about him:
He takes things as they come. He has more patience than any person I have ever met….even Garen and that’s saying a lot. He’s generous and truly believes in doing what’s right, even if it’s not the popular thing to do. He’s got faith in what he believes in, even when others around him may doubt. He loves my mom, his soulmate, with all his heart. He taught me to get up early and to become a lover of all things breakfast-related. He treats everyone with respect….and I truly mean everyone. He can and will talk to anyone. He is so very smart but also has common sense, which doesn’t always come packaged. He loves a great debate. He is passionate about whatever he sets his mind to. He is a perfectionist and he goes further than measuring twice to cut once. He can rock a sweater or turtleneck like nobody else I know. He always wants to find better, more efficient ways to do things. When he gets on a kick- whether it’s making bread, buying classic wool shirts on Ebay, or designing a custom anchoring system- he focuses in and perfects each process. He admits when he’s wrong, quickly apologizes, and, on the flip side, also forgives quickly. I believe him when he says he can fix anything but a broken heart. And he can build just about anything too. He believes in good shoes. He’s an Eagle Scout. He loves to read, listen to books, go to classes, and is a true life-long learner. He is not afraid of change. He’s hilarious and can find a way to make almost anyone laugh….or at least shake their head and grin. He is an excellent friend to many. And he truly is an amazing father and now also a wonderful YaYa to five grandkids and four grand-fur-babies, plus a grand-cat.
I could go on and on. Really.
I’m sure, if you know him, you’d be able to add a few things too.
If you’re reading this, Happy 60th Birthday, Dad. I hope you know how much I love you and how proud I am to be your daughter, employee, & friend. I’m so glad for my kids to get to call you YaYa.
To everyone else– enjoy the photos. There’s nothing like looking at old photos to provide a bit of entertainment. Genes run strong in our family, both on the Odom (Dad) and Bottlinger (Mom) sides, right?!? Most of these photos were from the slideshow that Joe put together for Dad’s 50th surprise party that we pulled off, plus a few since then. Yes, Mom, that means that I have found the video. Hallelujah!
The above photo is from Mom and Dad’s 60th Birthday trip. They climbed Machu Picchu. Yes, I know they’re awesome!
Thanks also to Joe for putting the man hours into getting these photos together.
Chicken Minus Head 