Wild imaginations infused with playful chatter and laughter often drift through our home. It engulfs my spirit; sweet music to my soul. My green-eyed teddy bear with a heart of gold wrestling with a blue-eyed ball of energy brings joy to me and I revel in those precious moments.
My husband is a creative, talented, and well-rounded musician. When I met my husband 8 years ago, music was his muse; the core of his being. For hours on end he would sit and play in his own musical world and creating licks, riffs, and refuge for his soul. Music wasn’t just some hobby, it was his way of existing; like a wave that engulfed his body, mind, soul, and spirit. It was where he went to talk to God and often where God met him. His love for music and his love for God fascinated me, and ultimately captivated my heart.
This endeavor of ours has caused us to journey through some strenuous obstacles, but more often than not, we enjoy the hand we have been dealt. There is great pleasure that comes from living life with your best friend and it is even better when your best friend is your husband. I’ve watched my husband grow from a young man into a diligent leader within our home. Prioritizing has been a constant conquered struggle for us both. We try to make continuous efforts to place God first and our marriage second [we don’t always get that right; we try].
In the last two years, things have changed drastically. We adopted a baby boy and he has changed our priorities yet again. Brave. Chivalrous. Selfless. These are words that have always encompassed who he is, but seeing him has a father has been magnificent. His love for me has always been selfless and he showers Zeke with that same love. He is also selfish with Zeke; selfish with his time. He is a busy man; two jobs, one band, and a family make for a very busy schedule. Yet, he constantly makes sacrifices for us both. He takes lunch breaks at home to cuddle with Zeke (our son) before nap time. He rushes home from band practice in hopes of praying with Zeke before bedtime. He cuts grass with Zeke securely tucked under his arm while he rides the tractor. He lavishes all kinds of musical knowledge into our son, even at the age of two. He disciplines him with grace and love while teaching him to respect himself and others. He contributes to Zeke’s love for fishing, football, hide-n-seek, hunting, and wrestling. He gives Zeke his undivided attention even when his phone is flashing emails, reminders, and text. He makes sure Zeke knows he comes before his dreams, hobbies, or work. He shows him how to thrive and take pleasure in his family.
My favorite thing is watching him teach Zeke about God and prayer. The sweetest sounds to pass through my ears consist of Zeke repeating his daddy’s prayers at bedtime. It is humbling to be privileged enough to experience the awe of our Creator through the babblings of our innocent son as he whispers the honest words of his daddy. I love watching my hubby lead by example and not just saying, “Do as I say, not as I do!”
Ox Ox, we are so lucky to have you in our lives. You are the greatest loan God has ever given me and I hope that as your partner in adventure, crime, life, love, and parenting that I honor you always. You are a gift that keeps on giving not just in our marriage, but also as a parent. Zeke and I can never thank you enough for loving us so selflessly. We love you with all of our hearts!
Happy Father’s Day!
I love you, my beloved! xoxo
IVEY VINE ADVENTURES 