Friday, December 22, 2006

Blowing in the wind...

Growing up, one of the things I wanted was a dad who didn't suck. I struggled to find a father figure. I latched on to my friends fathers, teachers, any male role model I could find, but it wasn't the same. Having a great dad is something very special to any girl. In my life, I never qualified as daddy's little girl. I was so jealous of my friends who had these great fathers. Mel's dad is one of the best.
When I was sixteen my Mom and Donnie got back together. I didn't realize it then, in fact it took me 15 years to realize it, but I inherited a great father then. Sure, I have sent Donnie father's day cards for several years now, but I never thought of him as dad. The funny thing is, it was Donnie who walked me around the block to let me know when I was disrespectful to my mother and it was Donnie who made me paint the fence when I broke curfew. It was Donnie who sent me wedding gifts when I married. It was Donnie who came to the hospital when my sons were born. Donnie was being my dad all along. He did it so subtly, I didn't even notice. That is the mark of a truly good dad.

Thanks, dad. I love you!

2 comments:

larry h. said...

Truly touching mate. Here's to you and yours and a wonderful father, wishing you all a happy and blessed Christmas.

Faira said...

Ha,ha... Donnie said he didn't have a clue... when walking you around the block! He didn't even know you had actually listened to his fumbling fatherhood. But when I had him read your post, let us just say, you made him feel very good! Now, onward and upward... How to Grandfather?!