On this father's day I wish all the dad's out there A Happy Father's Day! Growing up I was envious of all my friend's that had dad's that played a role in their lives. I always wondered why I couldn't be like them, simply to have the family structure. But of course when one ages and matures, I realized that I was the lucky one. I had a Dad and Grandfather in one.
Growing up this man was my everything.
While he may not be my everything today, he is till quite a remarkable guy that has had a profound effect on my life.
Growing up I looked forward to so many moments with him. While he was still working every evening when it was warm out Randy and myself would meet him at the end of the road to hitch a ride in with him. If it was too cold outside then there was a game of hide and seek to be had before we could eat dinner. After dinner in the summer their were rows around the cove or across the cove to go to the little store to get ice cream. There were also walks and bedtime stories, one being a memorable surprise of me having chopped my hair.
Whenever I needed something specific at the store he was the one to take me. Whether it be bathings suits to prom gowns he was the one. One time we were sent to get snow boots but somehow we came back with a pair of burnt reddish-brown cowgirl boots that I was so proud of.
He was my encyclopedia, my dictionary and my history book. I know I bombarded him with non-stop questions growing up and he was nothing but patient. I try to remember that when I am getting bombarded. He taught me more than he could ever imagine. He made sure I was cultured and had the experiences from eating at upscale restaurants to seeing plays so that I was well rounded. I've seen more than most kids have even dreamed of seeing. I'm trying to do the same with my kids but I don't know if they will get to see what I did.
He has never been a man to sit still, even though he was slowed down in his older years, and has always had a desire to learn something new. These are traits that I have taken away from all my time with him. I make sure I am punctual because he always said it's better to be early than late. Even though one time we were one week early to a camping outing in Williamsburg, VA.
He is one of two people that get "me" that know what is at my core and how I feel and what makes me tick. I've always been able to talk freely with him about everything and bounce things of him without him being judgmental and I've always respected and weighed his responses.
I cherish the moments my kids get to spend with him.
Whether it be on the boat
at the Zoo
or camping
I hope they carry these memories with them of the time they spent with Great-Granddad. The kids are looking forward to seeing you this summer to make more memories.
I apologize for the tears I've made you shed for the mistakes I had to make to learn from. But I want to thank you for being you that best possible Father and Grandfather a Granddaughter could ever have.
Love you, Shan.
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