The End of an Era.

Today we had the opportunity to attend my parent's sacrament meeting as my dad was released as Bishop of their ward. He has faithfully served there for over 6 years! We all knew it was coming, but man, it seemed like time flew by.

In the last 6 years...
8 grandkids were born
Scot & I were married
Kevin went from elementary school to high school
My grandfather passed away
their kitchen was remodeled
their pool was demo'd & re-dug
2 different kids moved back in...and eventually back out
3 kids/in-laws graduated from college
Ryan graduated from law school
and a myriad of other things I can't think of!

I'm so proud of my dad. He was an amazing Bishop. I am most grateful that we were able to live with them for 18 months of that time & see firsthand the intricacies & blessings of his calling. Our family was watched over & blessed on so many different levels & for that I am grateful.

So many kind words were spoken in today's meeting. I suppose I will never fully understand the impact he was able to have on so many lives while serving in that capacity. It is a calling with such far reaching effects. On Father's Day the ward presented my dad with a map pin pointing all the missionaries that have been called under him...49 in total, which is so amazing to me. Some came from uber-faithful families, others were recent converts. Some went to Africa & Singapore, while others went to Salt Lake & Boise. Regardless, they were all called to do the work of the Lord, just as my dad had been.

I am so grateful for the examples that have been set before me & the opportunity I had to witness & feel the deep love of a ward family.

Love you dad. Now go relax!