My dad passed away in 2016 after many health issues.
This is where I still keep his memory alive in different posts. 🤎
This is me and my dad circa 1984.
I was born on Father’s Day. It was a Sunday and I only know that because of the calendar for the year I was born. I can’t find the picture of him looking at me in the baby incubator but it is one that is seared forever in my mind because most pictures he took with me exude so much joy.
My dad always used to quip that I was his favorite daughter and I’ll always have to respond that I was his only daughter because I have two brothers.
I wasn’t a tomboy in the true sense of the word (because of dance, tutus, and hair salon trips with my mom).
But, I was all in on fixing, tinkering, and picking up 7-11 slurpees and David’s sunflower seeds with my dad.
and …
He cried the day I had to get glasses in the 8th grade but said it didn’t matter because I was still beautiful and now looked like a professor.
He was never too busy for a phone call and wanted to soak up every conversation like a dew drop to a rose.
He taught me how to fish in our neighborhood tiny pond.
He taught me how to mow our entire yard and trim the hedges.
He taught me how splendid candy makes you feel when enjoyed with others especially our favorite — Reese’s peanut butter cups.
He would take me to the library as many times a week as I could beg him so I could check out way too many books.
He would listen to so many jazz tapes and cassettes with me that we could have started a band.
He taught me to always dream big because we’re only limited by our imagination and that things can be done in new and exciting ways.
He taught me the value of holding the door and holding space for others.
He taught me that everyone has a seat at the table and it’s even better when food is involved.
He taught me that car conversations even to the local grocery store could be just as meaningful as conversations we had to have about the tough things in life.
He taught me that there isn’t a tool in the world that I couldn’t use to fix something, both in terms of furniture and even broken hearts.
I got 33 good years with this man and I’m glad he’s free now of all his pain.
I still miss him daily and still keep him close to my heart and thoughts.
Hi dad 🤎
This was one of my dad’s favorite songs that I’d like to share with you.
There isn’t even a month that goes by when this song doesn’t follow me into grocery stores and random places. Enjoy!
That was lovely, Joelle! And what a great photo and song to accompany your beautiful words to your dad. You were and are lucky to have had those experiences and memories. I’m sure you will treasure them always.
What an absolutely wonderful tribute to your father! Thanks for sharing your priceless relationship with him in this space.