Dad has always told us that, when my mother died, he prayed that he would live long enough to see his girls to adulthood. Cheryl was fourteen at the time, Kathy was four, and I was eight.
It was a difficult time for all of us, but especially for Dad, as he juggled extra jobs and single parenting. He never skipped a beat, always there for us, always encouraging and supportive. He was the constant in our ever-changed lives, and I considered him my hero.
I’ve heard other fathers described as strict and unapproachable, but that was not my Dad. He was guided by a most generous heart that allowed us to grow and change, and become the adults we turned out to be. We tested our wings, sometimes we failed, but there was never any question that he would be there wherever and whenever we landed.
Dad’s prayer was answered. He now has grandchildren and great grandchildren, and today he turns 81 years old.
Happy birthday Dad! Thank you for all your love through the years……