Ivy's First Father's Day!

 Another milestone in the lives of the Bartel Family.

Here's Great Opa (102)  meeting his youngest great grandchild, Ivy.

It was just two years ago, when Suzanne's Opa,

gave her the benedictory prayer by placing hands on

Christopher and Suzanne at their wedding.

"The Lord Bless you and keep you;

the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

Numbers 6:24-26

Two years later, he is praying a special prayer of peace for Ivy.

This has been a most meaningful experience for all.

Years later, Ivy will be able to watch the video tape.

 It's Father's Day today and we want to honor all these wonderful 

men who have worked hard at raising, loving and supporting their families.

Four generations!

Christopher, this is your very first Father's Day.

What a cherished gift you own.

Your smile tells us everything.

"If you are fortunate enough to have a job, do it with all your heart.

But remember that although it is a vital part of your life, 

it is only a part and although you may rise to great heights,

somebody else will one day take your place at the work bench

or at the head of the boardroom table.

Nobody will ever take your place as the father of the child

you are now cradling in your arms.

You may well work for the best part of a half a century

but the time you have been given to pass on the things

that matter to your child is so very limited.

There will be many demands on your time, 

and you will not always be able to give your children the time they ask.

But so far as it is possible, count the days.

Try not to miss one of them."

Rob Parsons