Father

Grandpa James with grandson James.

It's difficult to identify what makes my dad so wonderful, because in my eyes-he's simply perfect.When I want to brag about him, I am halted by his modest example. But Father's Day is a day to brag about dads, so here goes!

Top Ten Things I Love About My Dad

10. He is the most successful person I know, and I only know that because other people have told me his accomplishments. He's one of the top air quality attorneys in the west, but he shrugs off work saying, "It's just nerdy."

9. He is always game for a good joke. I love making my dad laugh. We have identical senses of humor-personifying animals, puns, and good ole political humor.

8. He is a quiet genius. He taught himself Latin, French, and Greek-and he is fluent in Spanish. He always has a stack of books next to him, and he relaxes by learning.

7. Whenever he needs to give his name to a cashier to call when his order is ready, he will always tell them his name is either "Biff" or "Ralph." And when the name is called, my mom will always slap him on the chest, and yell "JIM!"

6. He is open minded and always pointing out a different perspective. I can be adamant and immovable in my point of view, but when I get heated about a subject-he will often remind me of the other side. Whether it's politics, religion, sports, or personal relationships, he's the perfect example of an open mind.

5. He gives himself completely to anyone in need. I've heard him finish short phone calls after long work days with, "I'll be right there."He is a quiet hero.  He just gives, and serves, and loves, and listens.

4. He is modest. He never gives himself credit. When he is honored with an award or recognized for his unending achievements, he will often hand off the credit to someone else or down play his own accomplishments.

3. He is a bit of a hippy at heart. He loves the earth, bugs, snakes, nature, and even the Grateful Dead (it's true).

2. He loves my mom. He is purely chivalrous-dropping her close to the door in the rain, buying her flowers every week, and always abiding to her needs. She knows she's a pretty lucky lady. :)

1. He has dealt with trials and adversity that I cannot even begin to comprehend. But he fills his days focused on others' needs, that (in my opinion) barely come close to his. His selflessness is palpable.

I love you, Dad!

xo
Alli