My Dad

My Dad was awesome

My Dad

He was strong

He was compassionate

He loved Jesus

He loved people

He had a servant’s heart

He was kind

He was happy

I only had a short number of Father’s Days with him. And I know I didn’t get to tell him how much he meant to me nearly enough.

His example is still helping me today. Decades after he went to heaven.

I am so thankful for the time I had with him, and the wonderful example he was.

On this Father’s Day, I am thankful for my Dad. I am also thankful for my husband, who is a great Dad to our boys.

Dads – never forget the impact you are leaving on your children. It will be felt for the rest of their life.

What do you love most about your Dad?

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Lessons I learned from Jamie

I can’t stop thinking about all of the lessons I learned from my friend, Jamie.

I hate that I had to learn these lessons from her, as I wish she had never had to go through what she did. But, she continues to be an example to so many and is still bringing people together for a greater good, even after her death.

Her birthday seems like a fitting time to share them, as well as some pictures that touch my heart.

Speak from your heart. Always.

Smile. It’s infectious.

Take time to listen to others.

Blog.

Never give up on people.

Pay it forward.

Treasure every moment, every hour, every day.

Be thankful for everything, even if it’s hard.

Ask for prayer when you need it.

Give yourself completely to others.

Don’t sweat the small stuff.

Surround yourself with amazing people.

Tell your friends and family what you want.

Start on your bucket list.

Celebrate life. No matter what you are going through.

Much love.

Thank you, Jamie. For being a friend, an inspiration, and an encouragement to me and so many people. Your spirit lives on through Aaron, Kayden, your family and friends. I am blessed to have known you.

Jamie and Kayden

January 2011

Kansas City Race for the Cure

jamieswish.org

Jamie’s Signature tag line

Aaron and Kayden – San Diego Race for the Cure

This one wrecks my heart

Team Jamie

Thankful….

Last year, I updated my Facebook status every day in November with what I was thankful for. This year, I am combining them all. My list can go on and on and on, but these are some highlights.

I am thankful for

My renewed faith and relationship with God

My incredible husband of 14 years

My handsome and super fun boys

My Mom who continues to amaze and support me

My sister and brother

My nephews and niece

My extended family, including Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and in-laws

An amazing, grace-filled community called The Orchard

Beautiful friends

Our Compassion child, Peter, and the lessons he teaches us

Wonderful workout buddies and coaches who push me to get stronger

A career that I love

Our home

The ability to dream

The ability to create

The ability to learn new things

New acquaintances and friends

New beginnings

Grace, grace, grace

Strong people who have supported me when I needed it

Leaders and coaches who are investing in me and helping me grow significantly

The variety of unique relationships in my life

My lessons this year in understanding how short life really is

The blessing of writing

Technology

14 years with my Dad, who is still teaching me lessons through his example over 25 years later

Hugs

Sunsets

Nature

Music that touches my soul

I am so thankful for so many amazing blessings in my life. Have a wondeful Thanksgiving!!

Grateful

I am grateful……

 

For so many things……

 

Like these two beautiful boys…….

 

Brothers who love and fight and have fun………..

 And are learning how to be themselves……..

 

 

I am so blessed……

With an awesome husband…..

An amazing family……

New and life long friends…..

A beautiful church community…..

And so many others who have touched my life in some way…..

 

Thank you just doesn’t seem enough sometimes…..

 

But did you take the time to tell someone today?

We often let life pass us by without telling them…..

 

So today……..

Stop and take a moment……

And tell someone how much they mean to you…..

And that you are grateful for them……