Kelli Trontel

Four years ago tonight….I answered a phone call that drastically changed my life. The voice on the other end called to tell me that my dad was gone, that he had passed away.
Death and sorrow are game changers. Even the Bible says so: “It is better to go to a funeral than to a party. We all must die, and everyone living should think about this. Sorrow is better than laughter, and sadness has a good influence on you. A wise person thinks about death, but a fool thinks only about having a good time.” Ecclesiastes 7:2-4

Montana is the last place that I wanted to be in 2010, but on June 15th….my ideas and my plans and my focus in life shifted. Sorrow truly had an impact on me and I surrendered all of me….for the plans the Lord had for Reed and I. Even if that meant hangin’ my hat in Tennessee in exchange for the Northwest.

There are people in Montana who need Jesus and this fueled my desire to move. Within 60 days our house had sold to a cash buyer and we were driving a u-haul out of Nashville, TN towards Whitefish, MT.

Two things that put a smile on my dad’s face were COFFEE and PEOPLE. He lived for the conversations that took place at his favorite coffee shop. And here I am….a coffee shop owner, with an opportunity to touch so many peoples lives. In Montana.

I miss my dad. I miss dad hugs….nothing can compare. I wish so badly that he was here to be Papo to Ezra. My dad encouraged me my entire life. A critical or discouraging word was never spoken over me. My dad was full of life and lived each day with intention….he had time….never rushed, distracted or hurried. These are qualities I still try to live up to.
Fathers Day musters up different thoughts an emotions for each of us. For those missing their dads….I pray that you sense our Heavenly Fathers arms around you tonight.

Thankful for Heaven….