First of all, I would like to wish all you Dad’s out there a Happy Father’s Day!! In honor of this day, I would like to feature my Dad!
I don’t think I have ever seen a harder working person than my dad. He does anything and everything he needs to make sure that his family has everything they need to live the best life! I remember when I was younger that he worked a lot, just so Kim and I could have everything we wanted or needed. There may have been some days he came home after Kim and I were in bed, but I never heard one complaint from him about the long hours, sometimes working without a day off for weeks or how strenuous the work was. I don’t think there is anything in this world that he wouldn’t do for us – even to this day!
For a couple of years, he also coached my softball team – and I think they are some of the best memories that I have! He taught me how to catch a fly ball and get in front (and not be scared of) a grounder, but most of all, he helped me learn how to pitch. Before I started pitching, he didn’t know much about it, but when I told him I wanted to do it, he learned everything he could, just so I would be successful. We would spend a couple of hours after practice just working on my form and learning different pitches to throw. I would probably pitch over 500 balls, and he would catch non-stop and never complain, except for when I hit him in the shin (and leave huge goose eggs). We even took home 1st place in the state tournament! Even when I was playing softball in college, they would surprise me when there was an away game and it meant so much to me. I don’t think I had ever told him how much it meant, but I feel like when he was there, I was able to pitch better knowing I had my biggest fan to cheer me on.
Ice fishing used to be a favorite time of year too! We would pack up on a Friday night and head to Boysen Reservoir or Ocean Lake to see what we could catch. We would normally get to the lake after dark, so we would have to wear our head lamps and have our frozen hands from the cold water while we set up our tip ups. Dad made sure that the generator for the little Pop Up Camper we had was always running so my sister and I would stay warm. From sledding behind the four-wheeler to betting “$1 on the first fish, $1 on the biggest fish, $1 on the most fish”, they were the best times we have had at the lake! He never made my sister or I pay up if we lost the bet, but you can guarantee that we made him pay up when we won!
A couple of years ago, my parents bought some land in the Mountains in Wyoming, which is what my business is named after and where a lot of inspiration comes from. I think being there with the family is one of my favorite things to do. It is so peaceful and sitting around the campfire laughing at all of the past memories we have, it something I will always cherish. Being in the mountain air and away from all the buzz of normal life is just what you need to clear your head and relieve any stress you may have – even if it is just for a short while.
6 years ago, he also gained the role as a Papa. I love watching him when he is with my nephew. Tryston absolutely adores his ‘Papa’. 9 times out of 10 when I call my dad, him and Tryston are causing some sort of trouble. Watching how dad is with Tryston makes me all that more excited for Cody and I to have kids one day!
Growing up, I thought that my dad was super strict and I absolutely hated it. However, looking back on it now, I am so thankful he was. Even though my sister and I may or may not have caused the receding hair line and gray hair, I don’t think I would be where I am today without my dad. Dad taught me how to change a tire and oil in my car, shoot a gun, tried so hard to make me left-handed like him, how to gut and clean a fish or elk and how to fend for myself in almost every situation possible. With mom by his side, they also raised me to be the woman I am today - how to reach for my goals, the work ethic I have, treat everyone with respect, and do the best I can every single day. I may be somewhat biased, but I truly have the best dad in the world. Words cannot describe how much I love and thankful I am for everything he does- and continues – to do for us.
