July 3, 2021

A Year Ago Today...

Brynwood Needleworks - My Dad
 
He left us a year ago today. He didn't want to go, but damn cancer ravaged his body, and God called him home. Although it was twelve months ago, it hurts like it was yesterday. I miss him, and there are so many things I still want to ask him.
 
Dad was my childhood hero, and this is one of my favorite photographs of him. This is how I like to remember him...laughing and filled with joy.
 
Brynwood Needleworks - Reminders of Dad
 
Dad gave this monument to me many years ago. It's traveled more than 3000 miles since he gave it to me. He was a scuba diver and instructor (even owning a scuba shop when I was a kid), and this is a salvage piece from one of his dives. I knew the story decades ago, but asked Dad to retell how he brought this up from the bottom of a local lake in the months I spent with him before he passed. This is a reminder of a cherished memory.

The heart in front was a thoughtful gift from our neighbors, Andy and Shelly, after he passed. I don't leave it here year-round, but will bring it out for the summer months, especially when I have the flags displayed. Dad was a veteran, so I know he'd like the flags.
 
Brynwood Needleworks - I Miss Him

Independence Day (weekend) will always hold an added meaning for me. It will always be a time to celebrate the birth of our nation, but it will forever be a reminder to me of the death of my Dad. I know the tears will fade as years pass, but for now, it's still too fresh. I'll cry a little today, but not too much. He wouldn't want that.

So, I'll talk to him today, as I do every night before I close my eyes...and I'll take the time to remember the things I loved about him. I love you, Dad. Happy Independence Day.

DonnaAcornSignature

9 comments:

  1. It is good to have the dear and good memories, they will always live in our hearts. Thinking of you.

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    1. Dear Marit:
      Thank you. You're so very right.
      xoxo
      Donna

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  2. It's a wonderful memory of your Dad, glad you kept it.
    Hugs to you on a difficult day.
    Have a wonderful 4th.
    Marilyn

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    1. Dear Marilyn:
      Thank you so much for your note. I'm glad I have this (along with a few other small things) to remind me of a special time with Dad. I teared up a few times today, but kept my chin up, and kept busy. That helped a lot.
      Happy 4th to you, too!
      xoxo
      Donna

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  3. Your dad is always with you ~~ in your heart. You are blessed to have fond memories.

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    1. Thank you, dear Bonnie. I think you're right. He lives on in the hearts who knew and miss him.
      Happy 4th!
      Hugs,
      Donna
      xoxo

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  4. You've written a lovely tribute to your Dad - the memories are all we have of them.

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    1. Dear Maggie:
      Thank you so much. You're right. We'll keep their memories alive until we can hug them again.
      Happy 4th!
      xoxo
      Donna

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  5. What a wonderful picture of your Dad! It is a season of sadness for me as well, so I can understand your sadness and grief. Always remember the good times!!

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Thank you so much for leaving a comment today. I'm using new settings on my comments so that I'll be able to respond to your messages to me. Be sure to come back to see my replies!

Blessings, Donna