Zach was a young one when we married. Many would say he was too young, perhaps they would be correct. I was older, by six years, and was desperate to start a family. I didn't want to push him into something he wasn't ready for but my clock was ticking. We got pregnant a year after our marriage and I prayed earnestly that Zach was up for the task. I shouldn't of worried, he was more than up for it.
Zoe came along and I could see immediately how much he was in love with her. She reciprocated and has ever since had him wrapped around her finger. Zoe is certain that her Daddy hung the moon.
Noah came along during our most trying days as a family. Work was leaching the life out of Zach on a daily basis. One thing about working in ministry, it's never just a job. And when/if it does become "just a job" it ceases to be a ministry. Zach was so preoccupied that I was worried that he had the energy to be a father to another little one. Once again, Zach rose to the task. I can't wait to see the relationship between father and son develop over the years, especially living in a house full of girls.
The next few years were a whirlwind. Zach lived apart from us for a month, we moved twice, and suffered the loss of a little one. Zach was gone often and money was tight. It would of been so easy to let the little things, those precious moments that seem so insignficant to adults, but are so precious to children, go by the wayside. Despite long work hours, Zach still made time for his family.
Now we have a new precious gift. Our family is now complete. As I type this Zach is traveling to Dallas for Bishop's Week, an honor that I couldn't let him pass up. He hated to leave us, that was clear. The next week, and the weeks to come, will be difficult, for sure. We miss Zach when he is gone but the moments we have together are so precious and dear to all of us.
I had hoped to do a special project with the kids as a special Father's Day gift to Zach, but time didn't allow it. However, today I decided to get some pictures for Zach, to frame and have in his office. Taking pictures with three kids can be a huge challenge as any parent knows. I think a got a few good ones and I hope Zach likes them. I dressed the kids up in their Rockies gear to make it even more special.
I hope Zach always knows how much he is appreciated and loved. We love you!
