Happy Birthday, Dad

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Did you hear what I told you this week?

  White Plains, NY  1967

 

I said that you were always a good dad. That I love you and that if you could see the family you built, you would be so so proud. You would be crazy about all of us.

I also told you it is ok for you to go.  I always wonder if you know that.

We all carry on with all that you have taught us. You will always be with us no matter what. Each of us have a bit of your temper, a lot of your love of life, a big amount of your humour, your devil, your sensitivity, your energy, your stubbornness, and your inability to suffer fools.

I told you I was proud of you. You have a dignity and a courage that I find hard to imagine in myself, given all of this.

I asked mom this week ” Would dad be pissed off at me that I don’t see him more?” She said “Yes, if he were well. But no, not as he is today.”

She told me that I was your perfect daughter.

Really?

I suppose I know that but at the same time you made me work for it!

I guess I owe you my chutzpah, too.

Happy birthday, dad of mine. Today you are 80. I remember all of you, not just this last part. It does not cancel the other out.

 

It is only today that I remember the silliest thing we used to say to each other over many years. It is so funny that I have not thought of it for a long time. Here it is. I still don’t totally know what it means but I love it.

 

6 thoughts on “Happy Birthday, Dad”

  1. – Nancy: Your Dad and I almost share the same birthdate – mine was on the 8th and I know his was on this date – always sent him a card – find it hard to believe we are now both 80 – remember him as you so well talk about him – such a good friend for so many years to Barry and I – and difficult now for me as well not to know he is that same person. Didnt send a card this year as I know he wouldnt understand it – but thinking of him so please give him a hug from me.

  2. Hi Nancy!!
    Love this.

    Fraser was always a fun presence to have in the gym at the Belleair Country Club. I am sending my love to you and your mom. Dignity and courage really does run in your family.

    • Connie! Thank you. The community in Florida of people like you,makes/ made so many great memories for them both. Sending xoxo

  3. Nancy…. What a beautiful tribute. It is those many many wonderful memories that will endure and we all know how great a man he is as we see it everyday in all that you and your beautiful daughters do. Thinking of you.

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