Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thankful In Utah


This Thanksgiving I have so much to be grateful for. We were able to travel to Utah to spend some time with my family. My dad was retiring from the police department after 35 years of service. 

All my family (parents, brothers & sisters/spouses & our kids  
(missing my brother John who passed away & his daughter Whitley who couldn't make it that day)
He made a special request to have his entire family here for it. He's been battling 4th stage lung cancer and 
now brain cancer, which hasn't crushed his spirit.
 Incredible gift he was presented

 The Mayor congratulating my dad (he also spoke)
 The line went out the door forever...people waiting to talk to my dad
 He received a much deserved standing ovation
 My dad with Present & former Police Chiefs
(he filled in as acting Chief before his retirement)
 He is such an inspiration, finding joy everyday even through the excruciating pain and struggles.

My dad, Dave (Marine Corp.) with his mom, Violet
I'm thankful for the gift of each and every day with loved one's. Life's too short. You never know what tomorrow holds...seize the day. Don't forget to tell loved one's you Love them, don't just assume they'll always be there.

I'm thankful to my mom, for her faithfulness in listening to the Lord and following His will for her life and the example she and my dad always show. I'm thankful for the knowledge that the Lord is watching over us each and everyday. 
 My cup runneth over! Happy Thanksgiving everyone. 

4 comments:

Lucy said...

You all look happy to be together. I am so sorry about your dad. He looks healthy and happy. I have lost a brother to brain cancer when he was only 20. That was years ago and they did surgery but had to get a surgeon from another state. He just lived a few hours. I was 15 at the time. Since then my mom and dad and 10 siblings have passed away, plus my son and 2nd husband. Your mom looks so good and I gather the 2 ladies are your sisters.

DUTA said...

The photo of your Dad with his Mom - is stunning!

I like it that you try to find the good in things and that you're thankful for whatever you already have.

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Anonymous said...

Lisa and the Bolda/Lemich clan,
I am so happy to see all of you together and Dave looks so happy. The struggles we have everyday don't compare to what your family is going through. It makes me feel that things are not so bad and thank you for your stories Lisa! They are inspiring.
Love you all lots,
Cousin Kathie