Dad, as a little girl, I remember you hugging me and whispering, “Daddy’s girl.” I remember the whisker rubs and tickles followed by kisses and hugs goodnight. I remember the reminders to say my prayers before going to sleep. I remember Monique and I berry-picking with you, and while Monique filled her belly, I put each of mine in the pail, waiting for you to whisper, “You’re the best berry picker.” You always did. As a teenager, I remember waking up to find you praying over me before you left for work. As a mother, I remember my son Zach taking his very first steps to your waiting hands and Jake being so excited to help put wood in the furnace with you, saying how lucky Poppy was to have a fire in his house.
You were the first man to call me My Love, and I know I was your love. You will always be remembered as gentle, quiet, soft-spoken, and the very best dad.
I will miss you, Dad, until we meet again.
