Our Dad...

Last night we celebrated dear Dad's 85th birthday!

Thank-you to so many who have sent him a birthday card!

Both mom and dad are enjoying them

 and being kindly blessed by each one!

(note: we are having a card shower for dad!)

After last night's cards are counted mom said she thinks 

they will have received 85 cards! Thank-you again!

One day dad brought in 14 envelopes from the mailbox 

and he remarked to mom 'that it's never been like this before!'

(Dad is in the middle stage of dementia;

some moments/days comprehension is clearer than others)

Our dad lived out a legacy of faith and hope and love

Our dad led by example knowing words are not enough

Our dad, a man of principle, truth and integrity

Makes us so glad he is our dad and we his family

Our dad allowed his footsteps to be ordered by the Lord

He fellowshipped with God in prayer, and taught us from His Word

He worked with zeal and energy until time took its toll

He raised a family of ten, tending body and soul 

Our dad is dearly, deeply loved; the older that we grow

We cherish ever more the love he seldom spoke, but showed

And thank the Lord more often for the values he instilled

By serving conscientiously each role that he fulfilled 

We are so thankful for you, dad, and for dear mother too

Once you worked hard to care for us, now we want to help you

And count it a great privilege and blessing to return

The love that teaches us we are never too old to learn 

God bless you mom and dad, and fill you with His joy and peace

Knowing, whatever lies ahead His mercies never cease

His grace sufficient for each day, whatever cares assail

He cares for us with love and promises that never fail

Love, your daughter

Janet

and the whole Martin clan

Ps.37:23-26

The steps of a good man are [d]ordered by the Lord,

And He delights in his way.

24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;

For the Lord upholds him with His hand.

25 I have been young, and now am old;

Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,

Nor his descendants begging bread.

26 He is [e]ever merciful, and lends;

And his descendants are blessed.