Friday, October 19, 2012

Daddy's Girl


If you were to ask me growing up if I was a daddy's girl I would of said, "No, I am much closer to my mom."  My dad was strong, hard working, kind and very quiet.  But mom and I were the ones who always talked and shared hearts.  Even after I got married and had a family, when we all got together my husband and my dad would usually be off watching sports together while mom and I visited.  But all that changed about three years ago . . . . when my mom died.  That's when our relationship changed, as well.

My dad was 88 years old at the time.  He continued to live alone and did many things for himself but I found myself visiting him more often, bringing him meals, driving him to doctor visits, calling him every day, and just spending alot more time with him. Over the course of these past three years we have grown so close and I have gotten to know my dad so much more than I ever have.  The stories, the laughter, and the memories he's shared - what precious gifts they've been to me.  And now as time has passed . . . . in my eyes my dad is no longer just a good father and a quiet, private person - he's a big old wonderful teddy bear full of love.  Maybe he's always been like that and I just didn't take the time to see it.

Today is his 92nd birthday. I cannot express how much he means to me and how much I love him. I am so thankful I still have him in my life.  I can now honestly say, "I AM A DADDY'S GIRL!"

Happy Birthday Dad!  I love you very much!
Cathy