Memories of Dad: Part II

Today marks one month since my father's Celebration of Life...

My father has always liked children. My mother recently told me a story about when they worked at SuperAmerica together before they were married. In the story, my, then 20-year-old, father was talking to a baby or young child the mother had set on the counter while she paid. It was obvious to my mother that this guy was special because he was actively enjoying entertaining and talking to the child. I've often benamed my father the pied piper of children and the baby whisperer. He just had a way with kids and took to them. Whether he was calming one of my crying babies or holding one in the sunlight to help when they were jaundiced or getting down on the floor to play cars with a toddler, he loved interacting with children. He even walked my young cousin around our breezeway years ago to try to calm him. It didn't bother him to try to calm a baby's cries; he seemed to enjoy it. He would start mimicking one of my children until they picked up on what he was doing. Then eventually they would play the same trick on him. When he'd realize what was happening, he'd laugh and indicate that it was only fair. He was definitely an interactive grandfather. He would shoot hoops, go swimming, go for walks, go to the park, go to the store, and so much more. Last Christmas, he even dressed up as Santa Claus for our children. That memory will forever be etched in my heart. Not only was he an active participant in the lives of his children and grandchildren, but he was also a prayer warrior for all of us. If he knew of a specific need, he would be lifting it up in prayer. Or he would just pray what was on his heart for each of us. He also would stop and pray for a need as it came up...an upset tummy or the like. I am so thankful that my children were able to make many memories with my father over the years of their lives. That is a huge blessing! Enjoy your kiddos and grandkids!!

As you can see from the pictures below, my father went sliding, played with sparklers, snuggled, held, laughed, adventured, guided, encouraged, traveled, helped, and so much more...  Enjoy...