Rekindled Tradition

Recently I celebrated a birthday and was able to enjoy a special meal with my Dad, just like earlier years. Growing up, my Dad had a yearly birthday tradition with my sister, brothers and me. He would take the birthday girl or boy out to dinner.  It has to be one of my favorite family tradition memories, ever.

My Dad would make a date, and clear it with my Mom, then would let us choose the restaurant.  Sometimes it was known by the rest of the family where the two were headed, and other times it was a complete mystery.  I am not sure if my siblings sometimes kept the chosen place secret, but my Dad and I did.  When someone would ask about our night and the place we went……we would look at each other, and he would give me a wink and a smile, and we would talk like we went to another place……it was our secret to share.

On the way home from dinner, my Dad would stop at the nearest Fannie May or candy store and let us pick up a special treat for the kids left at home.  Most times, I remember giving, as well as receiving, those giant brightly colored swirled lollipops…..that never get finished, because they are so big.

Family traditions connect us to our loved ones near and far, and can last for years and even generations.  They build bonds and can cross miles and time zones. Traditions may come and go, but the memories remain in our hearts.

The recent rekindled tradition with my Dad meant so much to me; and brought back many happy memories.  To this day, my favorite place has never been revealed to my family, and I am not even sure my Dad would remember, but to me it was special in every way, and unforgettable.  I felt like the luckiest girl in the world. Maybe one day I will reveal our secret….for now, those memories are etched deep within my heart.

xoxox…Sheryl