We are in March now and every year since my Dad passed away (Sep 1999) I think of him this month and pretty much for the whole month. His birthday was on the 22nd of March and he would have been a whopping 52 this year! Some things in this life don't seem fair (especially the premature loss of loved ones), but I know there was a purpose in his mission to be called back to Heaven. I didn't always get along with Dad, I am not going to lie. Mom says we were too much a like and butt heads on a lot of things, but I don't know a person that didn't like him if they met him once or a million times. He was spontaneous, full of life, generous (to a fault) and a big kidder/prankster. He had a very dry sense of humor and could have you rolling on the floor in torrents of laughter. He always had a nickname for everyone (not sure if he just couldn't remember names or what). I hope he knows how much I miss him and that I would take back all my nastiness and mean hurtful words if I could (I really despised his Word of Wisdom problems and was quick to tell him...I know now there are many worse things than smoking). I am pretty sure he knows how much I love him now and a lot of other things I would probably prefer he didn't know (ha ha ha ha). One lesson I have learned in this life is to live as if this was your last day on Earth. That way we will reserve the negative things we are thinking and we will always be ready to be called Home. I am not the greatest example of doing what I say, but I am trying to change my ways and be prepared to die.
Dad and I always enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing together. He was not affectionate in the sort of way of hugs and kisses, but I never wanted/needed for anything. He cared for me a whole lot and I didn't realize it until Jared asked him for my hand in marriage. Dad replied, "She is kind of young. Do you think you know what you're doing?" Dad danced with me on my wedding day in 1998 and that is a memory I will cherish forever because I will never forget the words he wispered in my ear, "I love you Jen...You take care of your family now."
Here are some treasured pictures of the man known as my dad!
I will love you eternally....your only daughter, Jen.
I am so glad to get to see pictures and learn a little about your dad. I can't believe how much Jordan looks like him in the one picture. I so so so admire your positive outlook and your eternal perspective on things. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThis is beautiful. Thanks Jennie. I miss your dad, too.
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspiring post. I didn't know your dad very well, but I do remember him the way you say. I love what you said about living every day so that we can be ready when it is our time. Thank you. :)
ReplyDeleteAmber, which picture? The wrestling one...Jordan looks similar to my nephew Andy, who also looks a great deal like my dad. It is kind of fun. Can't wait to see them all again! This life can be quite the test sometimes, but how we handle those tests is the whole reason we are here.
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