Saturday, August 10, 2013
10 Years Later - A Tribute to My Dad
Okay, so it has been awhile since I have posted anything. Things have been chaotic and busy. I missed my annual Thanksgiving blog, I haven't updated on the kids in forever, or discussed Christmas- maybe I will get to it sometime soon. But today my thoughts are about my Dad. Ten years ago today, he died. My father was absolutely a very flawed man, but he was my Dad, and I loved him very much. I cannot believe it has been 10 years of not having him in my life. There have been many things that I have missed sharing with him. In honor of him, I have been thinking of the many wonderful things about my Dad. Here are some of my favorite.
1. My Dad used to say - Before you get mad about something, ask yourself, in fifty years will it even matter. Every time I get upset, I think of that, and it has stopped many arguments.
2. I never in 26 years heard my Dad talk bad about anyone, that is quite a record. I hope to get there some day!
3. My Dad was the hardest worker I ever met. He would be up for hours doing all sorts of things- changing his oil, going to the store, etc. before anyone else was even awake. And if you understood how much the man drank, you would know how really impressive that is.
4. My Dad loved children, like no one I ever met. He never understood how scary it was for young mothers when a strange old man would be talking to their kid at a restaurant or store. He even spent years dressing up as Santa Clause for any kids he could find.
5. My Dad was the most amazing host I ever met. A guest never wanted for anything at his house. He may actually drive you a little crazy offering you things to eat and drink. I know many times I would take whatever he offered me, even if I didn't want it - because he wasn't going to leave a guest in his home alone until they accepted something from him.
6. If I ever casually mention wanting anything in front of my Dad, he would take care of it. I remember my husband mentioning he needed some rope one time, just a few feet. The next time we saw him, he shows up with this huge supply of rope, that literally lasted my husband years.
7. My Dad was the ultimate pack rat. Everyone enjoyed exploring his garage because he had so many odd things, and if you found something you liked, he'd probably give it to you.
8. My Dad was very direct- I can't remember him ever lying or breaking a promise to me.
9. My Dad was a very strong man, not afraid to stand up for himself and those he loved.
10. My Dad always went overboard in everything he did because he was generous and wanted the people he loved to be happy.
11. My Dad was the ultimate gentleman, respectful to those around him. He always had a handkerchief in his pocket to offer to anyone in need.
12. My Dad lost most of his hair at a very young age, and thus had this crazy hat collection. He had coordinating hats for every outfit. He never left the house without one.
13. My Dad would drive 5 hours to have dinner with me, and not even think twice about it.
14. My Dad rarely complained even in his last months when he was in so much pain.
15. My Dad was very stubborn and very silly.
I can remember so many things he did that would drive me crazy, and some of those things are the things I miss the most. I learned a lot about what is right and wrong from watching my Dad. It makes me sad that he never got to meet my little boy, play Santa for my kids, or hold my hand through some of the worst years of my life. Those of you who have lost your Dad know what I mean. To those of you who still have your Dad, treasure the good and the bad, you never realize the things you will miss the most.
Originally posted December 2011
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