My Dad...

My dad died on Saturday, July 14 2012  - it was not horrible or awful but peaceful and dignified. It has been a struggle to come to terms with the fact that he is no longer here... I will miss him. It saddens me to think that he will not be here to watch his grand babies grow nor will he be here to see our new house or to experience with us all that life has to offer.  He is gone. I know this parting is only temporary but it is what is happening now and it is not easy.  I am so grateful I have the knowledge that I do that I will see him again.  That makes this part worth the pain - but like I said before it still is not easy.  To tell you a little about my dad - he was a very straight forward person who told it like it was.  When he didn't agree with something he told you, when you didn't agree with him he told you you should.  Some were offended by that, but that was dad.  When he was feeling good - he was one of the most kind hearted people I have ever met... he would give you the shirt off his back if he knew it would make a difference for you.  There were many a times he got Andrew and I out of a pinch because we had done something stupid (like lose car keys down the toilet - don't ask...).  We were always appreciative of his generosity, he has made us better people with his example. Dad never made a lot of money, it wasn't important to him.  I will admit, this was very frustrating at times and very opposite of my mom (not that my mom doesn't feel family is important  - but I am pretty sure you get what I am saying ; 0).  What was most important to dad was his family.  Christmas was always modest at our house, but he gave what he could and in my opinion that was enough.  This last year was rough.  His personality changed and at times he was hard to be around because he was in constant pain and he was exhausted. I felt for him but there was nothing that could be done.  One of the worst moments you can experience is being told that there is nothing else that can be done to help your loved one... that they are going to die.  My dad took that news with dignity and understanding and provided comfort to his family stating over and over that everything would be OK and that he was not afraid to die. He was a good man, he is a good man and I truly believe that he will be watching over us still. He is our guardian angel, and I look forward to the time when we can be together again. I love you dad,