Father's Day
This is the second Father’s Day since my dad has passed. I still miss him greatly. Some miscellaneous memories:
I stayed at my grandparents house went I went to the University, came home to visit on weekends. Had a great paying part time job, mentioned to the folks I was thinking about taking a year off and working part time. Without skipping a beat, and no malice, he asked me where I was planning to live. Put a quick end to that line of thought. Looking back I really appreciate his wisdom.
Speaking of that job, I was working second shift. Idiot me got into a race on the way home. They used the jaws of life to get me out of the vehicle. My folks arrived at the hospital at around 2:00 am. Fortunately I only suffered a broken collarbone from the seat belt, and was released around 3:00 am. He never castigated me for my stupidity. He got up at 5:30 that same morning to go to work, I don’t recall him ever missing work regardless of the situation. I never did apologize for putting him through this, sorry dad.
He and I always took a one week vacation around Labor Day. Started out backpacking, visited Pukaskwa national park (https://www.northernontario.travel/algoma-country/pukaskwa-national-park-is-a-must-visit-for-hiking-and-paddling-adventures), Isle Royal, and Pictured Rocks. We discussed going to Tierra del Fuego after I graduated, but by then we lost interest in backpacking. Beer is way to heavy to carry.
So our interests turned to fishing. We took our yearly vacations to northern Canada. The lakes are large, people few and far between. Could go for hours without seeing another boat. Experiencing bald eagles, loons, bears, moose, and the scenery was tremendous. And the thrill of latching on to a 50”+ Northern Pike on 10 lb test line was amazing. We always released the Northerns, but would save a few Walleyes for dinner 3 or 4 nights. Fantastic memories, thanks dad.
I thought I would share a wedding photo of my folks, they look very happy. 56 years all told.
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I really enjoyed reading this. I am sorry your dad is no longer here to spend time with you, but you seem to have such lovely memories, which at least keep him alive in your heart and soul.
I love the photo of your mom and dad! Aren't they such a happy and attractive couple? They were together a long time. They are so beautiful together.
I enjoyed your post so much on this Father's Day. Thank you for sharing.
I was not lucky to have such supportive, loving parents. It does leave a hole in one's heart....it certainly did mine. I think that's why I especially love reading stories like yours. I love knowing that such parents are really out there in the world! And I think I receive some comfort in a vicarious way by knowing that another person did receive such great parenting!
I always thought it would be nice to help kids reach their potential, also. There really are so many disadvantaged children. My son-in-law teaches school at a special school for teenagers who have been in the juvenile detention system. Most of their stories are heartbreaking....and most have lacked the stability and love that good parents provide. He tries his best to be a good role model, a kind, loving role model.
I have enjoyed talking with you. I am happy for you that you had such a loving home.
