Friends, I wanted to share the letter I wrote my Dad on December 18th. The anniversary of his passing. I hope it helps those who have lost loved ones. If you knew my dad I hope it makes you smile and think of your own memories of him.
It’s been four years Dad. Four years since you winked and smiled at me. Four years since you asked me multiple times, “how long until Craig gets here?” Four years since you said things that I couldn’t quite understand as the end of your life got closer. Four years since I kissed you goodbye. Four years since my kids were scared to say goodbye. Today, I listened to the Judds and sang along. I smiled as I remembered you sitting in the stands watching a football or basketball game and me cheering. The proud smile on your face and the bag of popcorn in your hands. I remembered the many conversations we had around the kitchen table, in the living room, or outside under a tree. I remembered you pulling in the drive after a day’s work in your blue Blazer and Yosemite Sam mud flaps. I remembered our laughs, our disagreements, and our cries. I remembered calming you down whether it was work related or a disagreement with Mom. I remembered the surprised look on your face when I showed up for a visit or the look of oh man you are going to interrupt this TV show. I remembered you telling me my music was too loud in my car. I remembered your first impression of JJ. Thanks for all the memories and lessons Dad. As I reflect on all of them and I listen to some of your favorite music, I am reminded that life goes on. There are things I would love to share with you. Stories to tell you, songs I would like you to listen to, and of course I would love for you to watch your grandchildren play their favorite sport; but life goes on. It’s been four years, but life goes on. The kids keep growing, changing, and arguing. I want you to know Dad that in your 67 years on this planet we call Earth you made an impact. You might not still be kicking the dust up but you are still impacting generations. I love you, Dad!