me and my dad, and yellow roses, Palo Alto, Waverly Street
I had such a sweet visit with my parents in April. One day, just dad and I went to Stanford campus to see the football trophies. They were closed for renovations but Dad didn't complain. Before we arrived we went out for lunch at a little restaurant and had sandwiches. There Dad told me about his life a a young man, elections he voted in, his first office job and how he quit after in addition to his office duties, they made him load dirty bags of cement but still wear a nice shirt and tie. He was ruining his nice clothes. Enough was enough.
I loved this special time with him.
My father is one of the sweetest, most unassuming, humble and loving men I have known. He is sentimental yet strong. I am very aware of how lucky I am to have this kind of person as the first man I have loved. It set the bar high when I went searching for a husband, and in my expectations of myself and others of what it means to have integrity.
My dad knows how to face life with confidence, faith, and most importantly, a positive attitude. He doesn't worry much. He always told us, "The Lord will provide." It's not that he didn't work hard or expect things to be handed to him. But there has always been this underlying faith in Divine goodness that has permeated his perspective, and I have to agree with him. We are all so blessed. And blessings keep happening, every day.
My father knows how to laugh. He is always smiling and generally a light hearted person. He makes jokes constantly. It's so nice to be in the company of a person like this. It is a reminder to not take things too seriously and sweat the small stuff. And when it is said and done, most things are the small stuff.
My father is helpful and always doing things for others, whether it's spreading mulch, loading the dishwasher just right (he was an engineer), or giving good advice.
My dad loves all things Notre Dame, especially their football team and its rich history. Notre Dame is sports and heart and holiness all rolled up into one magical thing. I went to Saint Mary's College, which is across the street for ND. Still now, when I listen to the Notre Dame glee club sing the alma mater or the fight song, I have to admit I get a little teary.
My father was a Marine and he is very brave. He has always been very brave and strong, physically and mentally. When I was young he played basketball with us and he taught me to pitch a hardball. I wanted to try out for the boys baseball league like my older brother, but my mom wouldn't let me, so I settled for softball and became a good pitcher for two consecutive teams that I played on for several years. At eighty-four, Dad still walks regularly, and he keeps a steady pace. Look out world.
The older I get the more I appreciate my dad. He is one of my most favorite people, ever. How did I ever get so lucky to be blessed with this amazing man for a father? Angels were smiling down upon me the day I was born, that's for sure.
Happy Father's Day Dad! Love you so much.
Love,
Treebear
