My First Love

This past week marked another blessed year on the calendar for my first love…..my Dad. His birthday weekend was shared by the college graduation of my nephew, which I know my Dad was happy to celebrate with his grandson. His eyes light up any time he is around his grandchildren, and deeply cares about each one.

When my daughter was in junior high through high school and beyond, she randomly developed and practiced on a daily basis, a loon bird call. She tried to teach her soccer and football coaches, teammates, friends, family, and anyone else that would listen. My Dad got the biggest kick listening to her, and looked for years to purchase a man-made loon call. He wanted to have it one day, and secretly whistle when she arrived to visit. Unfortunately, he never found one, but I would guess still looks for it now and again. He was one of her biggest fans when she was in Canada and Brazil on her recent internships.

He also has a close relationship with my son, Andrew, who would do anything for my Dad, which makes my heart happy. I love watching the two of them together. My Dad loves his adventurous spirit, hard working ethics, humor, and the confident and firm handshake he developed, by his guidance. Andrew, my nephew Garrett, and Dad spent many hours together. The two boys were his sidekicks, helping out with any needed chore. Even though a lot of hard work was completed, fun and laugher didn’t take a back seat. He appreciated every second, and always rewarded them well. I know he holds those memories dear to his heart.

He has the same close relationship with his other granddaughter Chanel, three other grandsons Tyler, Jordan and Chase along with the youngest, great granddaughter Nora. He would do anything to support them; no matter how near or far apart they are in miles. He is loved and respected by each one.

I believe my Dad’s heart is happiest when his family is spending time together. It gives him the greatest joy. His generous heart and loving ways connects the family in a strong bond. In good times and bad, tough times and sad; he is the revered patriarch of our family. I’ll never be too old to be his girl…..he’ll always be my first love.

Happy birthday Daddy,

xoxox…..your baby girl