The guy in these pictures has been a part of my life for most of it. He was my high school sweetheart and 58 years ago in September, I married him. A lot has transpired during that time including three great children who have grown into outstanding adults and three grandchildren who are becoming the same. I guess you could call Paul a rebel of sorts. He’s always gone the extra mile in everything he does. He doesn’t conform to the norm, but he is ethical and God fearing in everything he does.

When he owned his own business, he was very fashionable, wearing suit, tie and button down shirt. As he became his own person, he developed his own style. Today you will see him wearing jeans that are worn at the knee and covered with paint.  He wears clean jeans to church, but sometimes you may find a speck of paint on them too. The ties have been replaced with a bolo for special occasions. He’s an artist you see, so paint is part of his calling card.

He could be called a Renaissance man. He comes from a long line of them – inventors, builders, innovators, creative individuals with a quick sense of humor, which has served him well over the years. He still makes me laugh. Our children admired him, respected him, feared him at times, tried to imitate him, loved him to the moon and back. They still talk about times they shared with him as children and memories that linger on forever. They didn’t like his rules especially, but they realized his discipline was peppered with love and they passed that on to their own children.

This man has a lot going on underneath all the hats he’s worn over the years.  He has a masterful brain.  He’s a great problem solver.  He knows how to teach, have compassion, cry when necessary and laughs a lot.  He knows how to tell a great story, complete with body language and hand gestures.  I can almost “read” what he’s saying from a great distance because of it. The Word of God is imprinted in his heart and he is a great evangelizer.  He’s never been known to be shy and during our time together, he’s brought me out of my shell.  He’s an encourager, motivator, inspirer, talented, inventive and he’s the man I love. He is a great example of what a father should be.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO THE FATHER OF MY CHILDREN!