Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Happy Birthday, Dad!

My mom and dad


Sunday was my dad's 53rd birthday! When I talked to him on the phone, he was celebrating with his best buddies on their annual pheasant hunting trip. He said he was having a great time, as always.

As you all know, I am a major daddy's girl and proud of it! I love my dad and am very proud to be known as Kim's daughter for a number of reasons...here are just a few as it would take way too long to list them all!

1. My dad is an honest man. Used car dealers have a bad reputation but my dad built his business on honesty. So much that he had many returning customers and when he sold his dealership, the buyer purchased the name "Bradley Motor Company."

2. My dad would scratch my back every night when I was little. It didn't matter how tired he was, all I had to do was lay on the couch next to him and he would scratch until it was time for me to go to bed.

3. My dad left his successful business to become a missionary. Along with his hunting buddies, they began the non-profit organization Project H.O.P.E.. They have built countless homes, helped many with medical needs, trained pastors for communities, and provided preschools for the Nicaraguan children.
4. My dad showed me "tough love" during a very difficult time in my life. Although I did not understand his logic at the time, I am very thankful now.

5. People love my dad. I'm not just saying that because he is my dad. They truly love, admire and want to be around him.

6. My dad taught me that love is a choice, not a feeling.

7. My dad is very strong in his faith and has been a great example to me.
I could keep going, but I will save it for birthday number 54!
I love you, Dad!
A bushel and a peck,
And a hug around the neck.
- Pooh




2 comments:

Mimi said...

What a wonderful tribute to your Dad, he will surely have tears in his eyes when he reads this. Happy Birthday Kim!!

Angela Heather Hammond said...

I'm so glad you recognize how great your dad is. We cannot choose what family we are born into and for that reason, many people have rotten relationships with thier fathers. Some don't recognize how special their dad's are, and still others don't appreciate it until it's too late. Thanks for your example.