Safety

I'm kind of a worrier when it comes to my kids.  It's not something I'm proud of, but I am doing my best to prepare and teach them so I don't have to worry (as much).  I have spent some time worrying about my future teenaged children and the challenges they will face.

It seems, though, that each time I start to worry, I almost immediately feel peace and know that they'll be okay because Steve is their father.

Each one of them feels completely safe in his love, and I know that no matter what mistakes are made or how hard the trial is, Steve will be a great source of strength, help, and comfort for our children.  I am starting to think that "safety" is a synonym for "amazing father and husband."  Thank you, Steve, for safety.

 

And now, I must write a bit about my own sweet, Oklahoman father.  He loves his children so completely.  He is proud of each one and has always supported our goals.

I think one reason I worry so much about my future teenagers is because I pretty much hated being one myself.  I just remember crying SO. MUCH.  I was so emotional.  There were so many days that I couldn't wait to walk through the door of my own home and just be enveloped by the love of my dad.  I felt safe with him, not necessarily because he could solve all my problems, but just because I knew he loved me unconditionally.

Nowadays, I receive phone calls from Dad that go something like this:

Me: Hello?

Dad: Hey! How's my Virginian?

Me: I'm doing well.  How are you?

Dad: Good.  I just called to make sure you were doing okay.

Me: Thanks, Dad.

Dad: Okay, love ya.  Bye! (I'm not sure how to spell "bye" in Oklahoman, but it's different than the way I say it.)

My siblings and even siblings-in-law report similar conversations.  I used to be so puzzled by these short phone calls, but then I loved them and looked forward to them.  Even if he's busy doing something else or doesn't have much to say, he makes the effort to call and check up on us.  I love that.  I love you, Dad.

Happy Father's Day!