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Sunday, January 27, 2013

My Dad

In the quiet moments you cross my mind and it's still hard for me to believe I can't call you up and get advice. You made it easy for us to come to you. I loved how you would joke and tease us and give us counsel when needed.

I remember those last few nights with you and they forever will make me smile. :) I remember coming home that Sunday night and that bag of Godiva Chocolates that you had won at Mom's work party. You told us you'd be nice and share one with us. Kristy helped herself to a few and licked each one before you could take them back. We all knew you were happy to share :) That night we fought over your lazy boy. You dragged me out by my leg because I'd sat down in your chair when you'd only gone to the kitchen to get a drink. That chair was always your seat. I sit there every time I go home now and wrap up in your Nebraska blanket. :)

Two nights later, on December 4th 2012 you called that night to say you'd be late from work. You were so happy that night when you came home. I remember your smile as you kicked up your feet in your chair and told mom and I you planned to work overtime the rest of the week; just to irk a few people out there at work. :) There was a light about you that night. I remember you asking me how I was doing and when I was planning to head back to Jackson. That last evening with you is a cherished memory that resembles so many others I have of you. :)

Family always came first for you and we all knew it. We knew it in the way you worked so hard for us; even though you didn't like your job. We knew it from the way you taught us. You loved us unconditionally and taught us to love the same way.

You always had time for each of us and that is something I hope I can emulate in my future family. I loved the time we spent together. We grew closer as a family because of all those camping, backpacking, and fishing trips you planned for us. I'm forever grateful for all those runs you went with me on. I know I wouldn't have gotten as good as I did; had it not been for your encouragement and support. All those nights after your long day at work when you'd pull out your bike just so I didn't have to run the streets alone. We had many good talks on those runs. :)

There are so many other memories of you that I will forever love and cherish. Thanks for being the best Dad! I love you and I look forward to that day when I will see you again :)

4 comments:

Kay said...

Kim, Thank you so much for sharing this! It was something I needed this morning. I have been thinking so much about your Dad and those special times we got to have together. He truely was a great man. The Best! I too loved how he teased. That smile (especially the last night we got to spend with him) will forever be ingrained in my mind. He truely was the best husband and dad and grandpa that anyone could ask for. So many memories, so little time. Thanks again Kim. Thanks for being here. Love you lots.

Kim said...

You are most welcome Mom! Thanks for being great and so strong :) I'm so glad I was there with you that morning. I love you too!

Jenni said...

Thank you for sharing this, Kim! He was an absolutely wonderful dad! I have always enjoyed spending time with your family and appreciated when your dad would put me to work in the garden along with you, give us money for ice cream, and teach us things like how to change your car's oil. I love this post, Kim. I love how heartfelt it is. I know how much your family means to you and I'm so glad to know that you'll get to see your dad again one day! I love you, Kim! :)

Kim said...

Thanks Jenni! :) My Dad was good at putting you to work with me wasn't he? I had almost forgotten about that time when my Dad put you to work with me in the garden. Those were some good times. I'd have to say you learned quick what we were suppose to pull :)