He spent the afternoon on the front porch. He laughed and cracked jokes. He picked on his great grandchildren. Before we snapped this photo, he jokingly told me that this would be the best photo I have ever taken simply because he was in it. I agree that it’s a special photo. Time spent with Papa is a sweet, sweet gift.

It’s no secret that 2011 was perhaps the most difficult year of my life. A year ago, Papa was not doing as well as he is now. He had us all incredibly worried. Long sleepless nights. Somber times in the waiting room of the cardiac intensive care at Vanderbilt hospital. Doctors and nurses. Friends and family. Prayers and hope.

But Papa is a fighter, and God answers prayers. Life is precious, and my Papa is one of my greatest blessings.

I will always be grateful for every chance I have to take a photo with this man.