For so many years(2 months shy of 18 years), I memorized his face. I know the unique colors of his iris. I know the wrinkles around his eyes. I know where his hairline begins, mainly because I have it too. I know how his ears were: big, but perfect--I got those from him too. I know his mustache and his scruffy chin. His sun-dried leathery hands are engraved in my mind. Not only did I memorize his features, I memorized his personality. I knew him always joking--always. Always finding a punchline like Chandler in "FRIENDS", only better. And whenever I'm laughing, I can't help but hear his laugh, his contagious, hearty, belly laugh.
These memories are etched on my heart and burn onto the memory card in my brain. 5 years ago today, I lost him. I could no longer memorize him, because he was gone--just like that. All it took was 3 weeks. Now, I have to remember him. Because he was and is to this day, my Daddy.
But, how could I forget him? How could I forget the way he snored after falling asleep on the couch? How could I forget the way he held me when I was sad? How could I forget the way he called me "Sweet Pea" or "Pea Baby"? I'll never forget the song we made up and sang on our Father/Daughter fishing dates. I'll never forget the way he smelled--Irish Spring soap and Old Spice deodorant. I'll never forget him. How could I?
It's hard for me to believe that this day is finally here. I never thought I would get to this day. 5 years is a landmark year. And in a way, I'm glad it is here.
I had a wonderful day. My Goddaughter, Tori, has been here since last Wednesday, which was wonderful! I dropped her off at the airport around 1 and went to meet a very good friend for lunch. I met my former teacher and current friend, Teresa Walker. We had wonderful fellowship. I am so thankful for our time together. We talked about everything. And it was wonderful to catch up. And I went to keep baby Kate, who always makes me smile. Today was a great and I think Dad would be proud of how far I've come. I'll miss him everyday of my life, but I'm so thankful for this valley that happened in my life.
Thank you God for this opportunity.
Hope you all are keeping warm. Tell someone that you love them this week.
-katie
