Can Never Repay . . . But Will Appreciate

My parents demonstrate generosity in a variety of ways. Over the years they have taken in young people who needed someone to show support and encouragement. Sacrificially they provided sundry needs. When it comes to their family they are always on the ready to help in any way they are able.

Since the early 1990’s we have been vacationing in Forsyth, MO. Dad and Mom take care of everything. Even when we try to fill our own cars with fuel, Dad is at the pump swiping his card. Mom invites each family to cook at least one meal. We plan it, she pays for it. Our cabins are covered. Our fishing licenses and boat rental – covered. They tell us it is a gift they want and are able to give. We learned not to look a gift horse in the mouth long ago.

Patty and I planned a trip to Creede. We have another generous friend who offers us a place to stay. I have wondered about a pastoral exchange for a month but have yet to work that out. We decided to make a trip over July 4th. We enjoy the Parade in Creede in the morning and the fireworks in the evening. The dry conditions and the Colorado ban on outdoor burning nixed the fireworks, but the Parade was a hit.

Our trip was our way of saying thank you to Dad and Mom. And with a little help from another friend we were able to invite the kids along. Jason, Tommie, and Max could not make it. We were sad. But, this may give us reason to make another trip. We do not like it when both the girls and their boys – big ones and little ones – cannot come along.

I got to swipe the card at the pumps and pay for the meals, nearly all of them. Sometimes you just don’t argue with Dad. I rented the second jeep. And, it was a blast to say, “This one is on me!” Too many have been on “them.” Patty likes to tell the girls to make memories. We enjoyed making memories on this trip.

Our appreciation for Dad and Mom does not repay the ways they have invested in all of their children including their three daughters-in-love. But we will do what we can to show our appreciation. We had a great time. We took in sites from Creede to Lake City, from Bachelor’s Loop to Lime Creek. We saw more wildlife this trip than any before including a moose. (You can be sure there is a future Friday photo on the way.)

 

About the Author
Husband to Patty. Daddy to Kimberly and Tommie. Grandpa Doc to Cohen, Max, Fox, and Marlee. Pastor to Snow Hill Baptist Church. Graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Reading. Photography. Golf. Colorado. Jeeping. Friend. The views and opinions expressed here are my own and should not be construed as representing the corporate views of the church I pastor.

3 comments on “Can Never Repay . . . But Will Appreciate

  1. Steve Martin says:

    What a blessing to have wonderful parents like that.

    I’m so glad you appreciate them.

  2. I love this. Lake City was one of our favorite places to go. What you say about your parents is so true and they have always been generous to so many people.

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