BITTERSWEET FATHER'S DAY...

Where do I begin? Words can't express the thanks to all of you that have left the most heart-felt comments about the passing of my dad. Today I have a hole in my heart that I know will heal in time. The very first Father's Day in 59 years that I haven't spent with him. I know he's in a better place and that's he's here in spirit. We celebrated his life yesterday with a beautiful funeral service. The pastor gave a beautiful sermon, my son Chad did an outstanding tribute to his grandpa and we had a full military honor guard at the cemetary. Dad would have been so proud. Dad was a medic in England during WWII and worked in the operating room with the surgeons. He and my mom had a wonderful marriage of 65 years. He was the very best dad anyone could ever hope for. As for Grandpa, all you had to do was look at the faces of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren yesterday.
As most of you know, my Gannon (oldest grandson) has been my heart of hearts for 13 years. He has loved hanging around the shop, being my Santa, and worshipped his great-grandpa. He was taken back to the hospital on Friday and couldn't be with us yesterday. My mom's contribution from the funeral was for donations for his future care and I would like to thank everyone that has so generously given of their hearts.
I'd like to make a tribute to Dad with this post. First and foremost, he was a patriot. He always loved our country and proudly flew the flag in front of their home.

For as long as I can remember, Mom and Dad have had this cast iron sign out front with the three of us.

A day never went by that he didn't get up and feed the birds. They would both sit in their dining room and watch the wildlife in their backyard. Now it's our turn to take over and make sure the birdfeeders are full.

Dad built one of these birdfeeders for all of us as we each moved into a new home. All of the grandchildren have one and many others as well.

And here is his old fishing boat. Many hours were spent with my children digging worms and fishing. I'm sure my husband will continue the tradition for years to come.

I'm asking that you all keep Mom in your prayers during this difficult time. I know I've talked a lot about Dad during the past few years, but we are lucky that she is here with us and we all have to "pick ourselves up by the boot straps" and move forward and be thankful for all the blessings that God has given us.

So, with that, I would like to say Happy Father's Day to my husband, my sons, and my sons-in-law for being the fathers that will follow in Dad's footsteps. Happy Father's Day.

Until next time...