The greatest man on earth

Maybe I'm a tad bit of a daddy's girl, but I think my dad is the greatest man on earth. (hmm, maybe that's why my first word was dadda?...) He is such an incredible example to me in so many ways. I just adore and look up to him so much! He has impeccable work ethic and has worked hard to provide for our family, allowing my mom to stay at home with us while we were growing up. He loves the Lord and is more knowledgeable about the gospel than anyone I've ever met. When I was younger he was called to the stake high counsel, serving with the spanish branch. (he learned spanish on his mission to Madrid) He went to graduate school while working full-time and raising 8 kids. He is a quiet, pensive person, but has a flair for adventure. He loves riding his motorcycle and a couple of years ago, he got his private pilot's license. He's crazy smart and has his bachelor's in chemistry, MBA and he's been working on his doctorate in international business. He's been working as a "senior principal scientist" for the ATK Thiokol for the last 37 years. Unfortunately, our country's recent cut-back of the NASA program has really been taking its toll on the Space-Science industry, and my dad lost his job today. My parents have known this was coming for the last 2 years, so they've been financially preparing for it, but it's still a heavy blow. My dad is only a few years away from retirement and I am just so sad for him. he's been working for that company since the early 70's! They're smart, resourceful people and I know they'll be fine, but I just feel for them right now and I want my dad to know that he is my hero in every way that counts. Love you dad!

In 2008 my dad was given a very prestigious award from NASA for his contributions to space exploration. This photo is during the awards banquet they had at Cape Canaveral in Florida


My dad and his motorcycle


Me & my dad at my cousin's wedding last summer


Here's an interesting article about the problems at ATK Thiokol
http://salttvnet.com/articles/20100617/layoffs-loom-thiokol-more-jobs-chopping-block