A Man's Man and a Boy's Pawpaw

My daddy. Lord knows he is one of a kind. He grew up in a family of 5 boys. He was super athletic and has always been a fierce competitor. He worked so hard for my family. That is how he showed his love. He was very involved with my brothers as they competed in sports. I know he loved me, but he didn't know what to do with a girl. I was an emotional, mouthy cheerleader that loved art. Lol.  My dad has expressed how proud of me he is as an adult. He's tough though. I know that some people who THINK they know him, think he's too harsh. I promise you that if you truly know this man, you don't have to wonder what he thinks, you don't have to wonder where you stand, and you don't have to wonder how you'll survive; he would do whatever it takes to help you.

Okay, with all of that being said, he loves his 9 grandkids more than anything. I never thought he would be this kind of Pawpaw. He loves spending time with them. He teases the little ones and makes pies with the only granddaughter. He calls the older boys the "Wrecking Crew" and they have inside jokes that I don't want to know. He was never too involved when they were babies, but as they have grown up, he loves to have them around to joke with and to have a good meal. He is a no nonsense, "you kids go outside" kind of guy. When Asher was diagnosed, I wondered how he'd be with him. I didn't know if he would be patient with him. I didn't know if he would find something in common with him. Love, true love, is an amazing thing.

My parents have started taking Asher to therapy for me on Wednesdays. This has allowed me to have a break. My dad has made such a connection with Asher. He is researching ideas on ways to help him. He is talking to others about what they know. He gets so excited when Ash does something new. He's amazed at how strong and athletic he is. He texts me links, ideas, and quotes to inspire me and keep me going.

My dad sent me this text today:

Don't you EVER forget what the apostle Paul's HOPE was. It's the ANTICIPATION of GOD'S beautiful child , ASHER'S hope. It's our hope too !! And make no mistake about it, he's visibly improving and we and THE ALMIGHTY GOD will see us through this. Hide and watch GOD at work ! The love for that child from this family can not be measured.


Asher didn't know it and I didn't know it, but my dad is one of his advocates. This particular advocate can't be stopped, can't be told "no," and has a determination like you've never seen! My dad told me about a plan he has for Asher. He has ideas that I know he will see to the end. My dad goes full out in everything he does. I know his ideas will become reality and be successful. Hide and watch...

Big Pawpaw loves to have Asher play with his dog, Troy. Now, Troy looks for Asher to play. This has become one of Asher's favorite things to do.😊