I Miss My Dad

I miss my dad. I miss that my kids didn't get to experience his crazy ways. He never got to tell Natalie that "she's a darlin'." I ache for my mom for the years she has spent without her lovable husband and partner in life. I miss all the camping trips we took and silly stories he told, that my mom swears are not true. I miss my kids' Grandpa Harold, I miss my mom's loving husband, but mostly I miss my dad.

He won't ever ask me "if I had my druthers, what would I druther?" So I can never get all frustrated that it is the thousandth time today he has asked me that. I miss him teaching me songs my mom doesn't want me to hear. Her rolling her eyes at him while trying to hide her smile. I miss his generous heart that would give away his underwear if someone else needed it. Not that they would need it more than him, just that they needed it at all.

My dad had the most twinkly blue eyes in the universe. His eyes were usually twinkling because of something ornery he was up to. My dad, Harold, was quick with a joke, never met a stranger, and loved his family beyond measure.

When we had to watch him slowly fade away with cancer he continued to keep those around him positive. In his last hours, surrounded by friends reminiscing about the good ole days, he shushed them. He didn't want to remind God of his mischievous adventures as he was preparing for those pearly gates.

Dad, your life was too short. Decades later you are still missed by all those that you loved. I am so glad at your funeral we played "Red River Valley." It was perfect for you.

"They say from this Valley you're going. I will miss your bright eyes and sweet smile. Just remember the Red River Valley and the ones who have loved you so true."

In Him,
Joyful

Favorite story my dad told, and my mom, of course, denies:

One weekend they went camping, and it was late when they arrived at the campground. While they were setting up camp Mom went off to go to the bathroom. It was pretty dark so she decided to just use nature. After all, it was nature that was calling. So she squats to take care of business, and all of a sudden there is a bright flashlight on her behind.
"Hey lady, scoot over! You are getting my bedroll all wet!"
1-15-2010
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