As the full moon has been rising in the east there’s been a setting sun on my father’s life. This past week he passed away at the age of 84, after a well lived life. He met my mother in the third grade and the childhood sweethearts later married and enjoyed 62 years together. Dad was in the Korean War and was proud to have served his country. An architect by trade, his legacy can be found throughout the Kansas City area. My two brothers and myself carry many of our father’s influence, one of which is the importance of family. We all came together this past week, supporting Dad and Mom and one another. Life will be different for all of us now, however we’re all richer for having had Dad in our lives.
Family
Thanks to my father
Happy Father’s Day to my dad. I’m so fortunate that he’s been one of my biggest supporters throughout my life. This photo from 1960 brings back memories of love, caring, adventures, and great times. He was the one that built a great playhouse for me, complete with French doors. And he was the one that bought the old upright piano that I first took lessons on, and even took the time to strip all the paint off and refinish it. Dad took me ice skating, developed my love of the outdoors through camping and fishing, took me canoeing, and even bought me a horse when I was a young teenager. My dad persevered with me trying to overcome my barrier to math story problems; for hours he kept his patience and worked with me until finally the light bulb went off in my head. So many experiences I’ve had, and so many lessons I’ve learned from Dad, and continue to do so even today. Happy Father’s Day, Dad – and thanks for helping to shape me into the woman I am today!
Thanks to my mother
It’s Mother’s Day and I’m thinking of my mother; how lucky I’ve been to have her in my entire life, even today. I look at this photo from 1960 and I can see her love, her support, her caring, and her pride. I’m guessing it was Easter-time because of the frilly dress and hat and patent-leather shoes. What were my mother’s dreams for me? And have I lived up to those? I’m living a full life, surrounded with family and friends. I’ve had my mis-steps in life like everyone and I’ve managed to pick myself up and keep going, learning in the process. I’ve gone to school to be educated and I’ve learned life lessons outside of the classroom that I’m carrying with me each day. I’m developing the artistic heritage that my mother has passed down to me; her artwork inspires my photography and her sewing lessons (along with those of both my grandmothers) have carried through to my quilting and even into my photography. I approach each day with a positive attitude, open to the possibilities of great and beautiful things that can happen. Her love has remained steady and she’s one of my biggest fans and supporters. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom – today and everyday!
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