Tablescapes, Home Decor, Thrifting, Cooking

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Flowers for my Father

This week marks the twentieth anniversary of my father’s passing.  It seems unreal it has been that long.  Often I think about the things we have missed having him here for.  Of course like in most of our lives there have been high school and college graduations for his grandchildren, weddings, great grandbabies and the many ups and downs that come with living.

 

We miss him so much.  My dad actually passed away on Memorial Day.  This year I wanted the vase on his grave to be a bit more special so I arranged with love some brightly colored silk flowers.

 

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My Dad taught my sister and me so many good things to remember.  He taught us to have good manners.  Nothing less was ever acceptable.  One thing I remember to this day is to never walk across someone’s lawn to take a short cut.  He thought it best to walk down the sidewalk.  Not sure why he felt that was necessary but to this day I think of him if I start to walk across a yard.  We knew to think of others and respect them.

 

Dad taught us to button up our coats and to never look sloppy.  He was a firm believer in looking nice and presentable.  We could never come to the table in our swimming suits as teenagers.  Speaking of the table, Dad would go hungry before he would eat the last helping of something.  It was always left by him in case another might want it.  He was always thinking of others.  Our home was always opened for friends and family.  He was happiest when people were around.  I can still see that big smile on his face when lots were gathered.

 

He made sure we always respected our mother.  We knew how much he loved Mama and that love for her shone through during all their married years.  He was not only a good Dad but he was a good husband.  Together they were strict but loving parents.

 

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Dad, we really feel like your sixty seven years on earth was not enough.  God had other plans and we know that you are looking down on us and I sense you are smiling.  Thank you for being the best Dad ever.  You and Mom set a very fine example of how we should lead our lives. In turn we have passed those qualities on to our children knowing you would approve.

 

 

 

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And oh yes, Barb and I still remember you taught us how the crow lands while sitting by you in the car!  We also still remember how strong your toes were, right Barb? Winking smile

 

We miss you Dad.

11 comments:

Pinky at Designs by Pinky said...

A beautiful tribute to your dad! He sounds like he was the BEST! What a gentleman. It is wonderful that he taught you so much. My Mom is gone 20 years now too. It is still hard to believe. XO, Pinky

southerninspiration said...

That is a nice tribute to your daddy, Donna. Both my mamma and daddy died in May also..... lovely flower arrangement you made!!!

Suzanne

Miss Char said...

I'm sure he's smiling down on you and your family Donna, he sounds like a wonderful man and father.

www.thewhitefarmhouse2.blogspot.com said...

Your Dad sounds like a great man Donna. So nice that he left you with fond memories. It always seems like the time you have with them is never enough. My mom has been gone 26 years this month, in fact in a couple of days. I still miss her like it just happened. Love the flower arrangement that you made for him. I am sure that he is smiling at his thoughtful and respectful children.

Cathy said...

What a lovely tribute to your dad and a beautiful arrangement.

Unknown said...

Donna, the worlds nees more people like your Dad. What a wonderful man...not that I'm surprised since I know how wonderful his daughter is.

Blondie's Journal said...

This is such a bittersweet post...it made me smile but I had a lump in my throat. I miss my dad very much, too.

Your floral arrangement is beautiful. I will be thinking of you today.

XO,
Jane

April said...

This was beautifully written...thinking of you as you remember your dad and everything he meant to you.

Red Couch Recipes said...

I too often think of the occasions I wish my parents were present for. We never do have them around long enough. You dad sounds wonderful and you have made a beautiful vase to place on his grave this Memorial Day. Joni

Tablescapes By Diane said...

Hi lovely lady. I also miss my DAD like you do.!! He die 24 years ago and my MOM 4 years ago at 93 ~~ I also love your Beatiful vase you are going to put on this grave for this Memorial Day.
XXOO
Diane

outlook hosting said...

Lovely!