I wish I would have said...

You know how when you give a speech or toast or get in a confrontation with someone and after the fact you think "I wish I would have said...

I do this all the time. Well, this week we had a surprise party for my dad's retirement/60th birthday. Carly and Jason and Brian and Suzanne couldn't make it, so...I felt I had to say something at the party when my mom opened the mic for roasts or toasts. Now, when I have to give a speech I usually write it down and practice many times before I have to give it. This toast was off the cuff. I have been thinking the last few nights about what I wish I would have said. This is it.

So many men and women got up Thursday night to toast my dad about all of his business successes. They talked about his positive attitude, determination, and never quit attitude. About how he works so hard, helps others out as much as he can, and truely cares about all of the people he works with. I agree with all of these descriptions of Dad. But, what is truely wonderful about him is that as much heart and soul and time and money that he put into each company he built, he put more into his family. His number one priority has always been his family. I have NEVER felt second to his business career. Dad has always put my mom and us kids first. He traveled a lot when we were young and worked late hours, but I can't remember a time that Dad missed a holiday, a birthday, a soccer game, a dance recital, or anything important to us. He made it a point to be there. He always did and still does. As much as dad loves his work and starting new adventures or investments, that comes a distant third to the Lord and his family.

I remember one time when I was in high school and our dance team was performing a father daughter dance for a football game. All the dads would come in shorts and t- shirts to the practices in our school's parking lot. Dad would come with only seconds to spare, straight from work in a suit in the 100 degree weather. But he was there. He made every practice and was a GREAT dancer! I'm sure he had a ton of things to do at work and possibly million dollar deals in the works, but he made it. He was there for me.

I know Carly and Brian probably have similar stories. They would have probably given better toasts then I did at the party. I'm glad I have a blog so I can say what I wish I would have said at the party.

This attitude and lifestyle I have observed by my dad, along with my mom, has made me who I am today. They raised me to know how to prioritize my life. They have always been grounded and thankful for everything they have worked so hard for. I am blessed to have parents like them.

Here are some pictures from the party. Sage's shirt says "Grandpas my Hero".