honoring him on his birthday.

he's a man of solid integrity, compassion and truth combined. his joy, contagious.. Jesus' light dancing in his eyes. and, wow, does he love Him.

although he could walk right inside the house, he chooses to announce his arrival home by sounding the doorbell...not once....but repeatedly. and that resounding doorbell screams "i'm excited to be home. i can't wait to see each of you."

my apology for cliche', but he is our boy's hero.. their daily example of manhood, being a father, husband and man after God's own heart. they see his hurts and joys, his successes and failures. he's praised them and admonished. he would never claim perfection, as there are times of question and frustration. but, there is never a time when he doesn't stop and seek Christ. the boys see this and lean into his leading of our family. his leadership supplies the foundation that our family requires to serve God with all that we are.

it was in the midst of possible transition, when a pastoral position was down to only a few candidates, that our second-born said this. "Daddy, you're the one for the job. It's going to be you, because you're the best pastor there is." what a gift that his own son would recognize the calling on his life.



and as for my perspective? well, i think he's simply amazing. it is a joy to love him, and he love me back. eighteen years later, those same tummy somersaults that occurred in college, still happen today. he loves me so well. and, i too, have learned to lean into his leadership, allowing him to direct our family towards Christ. what a comfort knowing he seeks God in all things. his example of God's love to me is invaluable and cherished.

he's my husband. and i love him so.