Patriarchal Blessings

From the left, Corinna, (my sister in law) John, (my brother) Dad, Joyce, (Dad's wife) and Rebekah.

My precious father went home to be with the Lord in February. 

I miss him. 

We often did not see eye to eye, but I always knew he loved me and wanted what was best for me. There were, in fact, many times we had strong disagreements. But he was always willing to listen to my heart, even when we found no resolution. 

The day these pictures were taken, we had traveled to Fort Worth to celebrate his 84th birthday. He was upset with me over a decision Kregg and I had made. But in spite of that, he did the most wonderful thing! As a patriarch, he spoke a blessing and prayed over each of my children. These pictures, even though bittersweet for me, are such a beautiful way to remember him now that he is Home.

           

We had finished our lunch, and the kids starting making their way over to Dad to hug his neck before we left. At first, he was just giving them a hug, but then he started praying over each one of them. Rebekah and Joshua were first in line.
   
                                   



         
            
Levi and Cole are in line behind Rebekah. They are my nephews.

          
     

                 
                              

 This is my niece, Sarah. 

           
Daniel, my nephew, bending over to hug Dad while being prayed over.



           
Grant, another nephew, having his turn.


            


             
This is our youngest son, Ben. 


                   
Our third daughter, Elizabeth, listening to Grandpa J. D.



                                              
This is little Rachael, my niece. It was the most adorable moment. She had watched all her older siblings and cousins. So when it was her turn, she walked up and just laid her little head on Dad’s arm to be prayed over. We all melted.

                          
Such a precious little face, and to have Dad’s enormous hands so gently cradling that little cheek makes me weep. Again. I do that a lot in the face of Beauty. Thank you, Lord for my father who tried so very hard to do what he believed was right. I am blessed to have such a heritage of faith.

                                                 
This picture is pretty blurry, but this is Mackenzy, our second daughter.


                                                   
Caleb, our oldest son, had just graduated from high school.


                                          
This is our oldest, Hannah. At the time of this picture, she was engaged with the wedding later in the month.


                              
I love you, Dad!! Thank you for blessing our children. Thank you for such a precious memory.