My Ole' Dad

I recently went with my parents to a Graduation party for my cousin Kyle. When we got there my dad shook Kyles hand and gave him some sound advice. Advice I’ve heard many many times over the years...

Follow your dreams, don’t ever let anyone tell you you can’t do something, don’t outsmart your common sense, and always follow God.

If I could describe the way I grew up, that just about sums it up. Many of you may not know this about me but I’ve had about as many "career paths" as there are days in a year. I have pre-requisites for radiology, elementary education, absolutely nothing at all, dance, radiology again, and now...general, no transfer. I should probably have about six degrees and so far have none. After changing my mind...and my degree about 100 times my dad sat me down and said "Beka...what is it that you WANT to do? Not what you think you should do or what you think we want you to do. What do YOU want?" My answer? "Dance". You know what he said? "Let’s do it." He and my mom helped me find a rentable space and helped me rent it since I was starting from scratch. He built incredible, unbelievable props for every dance recital, competition, performance, and whims that I had. He worked the curtain at every show. He believed in me. 

When I found out I was pregnant with twins we ultimately decided it was best for me to stay home. When I told my parents they helped me pack up every last tap shoe and haul it to storage. This was a business that they had supported in every single way for over five years. It was and still is so bittersweet but my dad never said a negative word, or asked for an ounce of his time and energy back. He poured into that business just as much as I did and I’m forever grateful. 

Something else you might not know is that my dad can run. He can tell you how out of shape he is and then run seven miles without a sip of water. When I was getting ready for my wedding he ran with me every single morning. Four miles. Seven miles. He would’ve gone ten if I asked him to. Some of my favorite times have been running alongside my dad while he pretends he’s trying to keep up with me when we both know it’s the other way around.  

I’ll never forget how you checked on us during the night, Dad. I’d hear a noise and there you’d be, peeking in our door to make sure we were okay. On the nights I didn’t wake up, I know you were there just like the night before.

I’m so thankful that my dad has always encouraged me to follow my dreams. He always told me that if I work hard enough there’s nothing I can’t do. He taught me faith and lead by example. Because of that solid foundation, I’ve never questioned who I am...even though I constantly question what I want to do.

Thanks, Dad, for always being the best!