To my Dad, also known as Papi, Grandpa, Hon, Amiel and Famous Amos [in the local bars].  You’re that guy that most people like, some people hate and everyone knows.   You’ve played in a band since, like FOREVER,  and have practiced in the basement since I can remember.  I mean, you’re pretty much “one” with your guitar and without music, I don’t think you could live.

You’ve been around 56 years, so I think you’re doin’ alright.  I’m pretty positive you’ll be around for many more.  You better be.  We need you.  Mom needs you, even if she acts like she don’t.  Good grief, you’ve been together since you were like, what?  13?  OK, maybe you weren’t together, but I know you were “crushing”, “dating”, “going steady”, whatever you wanna call it.  That was like, 43 years ago and you’re still together?  Right on!

Even if you made Mom frown sometimes, you made me smile a lot.  I might be a “forever optimist” and typically only choose to remember good stuff, but that’s how it was [for me, anyway].  You made crazy contraptions to keep us engaged [sling shots and clothes line-zip lines].  You took us sleigh riding and taught us how to ride motorcycles [and tote goats].  You were our creative and carefree side.

Was there more you could have done as a father, as a husband?  Hell, I guess so.  Shit, can’t we all?  But I wouldn’t second guess a damn thing.  I’m just thankful and proud that both my Mom AND my Dad, toughed out the bad times, continued to work hard to make a life together, kept the family as a unit, remained committed and stayed married.  You and Mom are my inspiration!

I know the last 7 years have been tough.  When Mom had her stroke, she was only 48.  She was young and full of life and, she was the family matriarch.  She paid the bills, did the taxes, took care of the house.  Then, bam!  Everything came to a halt. But, Dad, you stepped up.  You had to.  Between you and Chris, you took care of Mom.  Ed and myself helped as much as we could, but you really pulled through for Mom.  Now that’s what I call “rocking chair” love.

Tomorrow is Father’s day and I’m not sure if you will have band practice.  I doubt it.  Rick and Denny will probably spend the day with their families and you will probably pace and fiddle, since Mom is in NY.  But I know where you’ll will be next Sunday.  Just like clock work.  In the basement, with the band, playing your guitar, singing into the mic and being my Dad. 

Here we are, today.  I’m a Mom now.  And you, well you aren’t just my Dad or my Papi anymore.  You’re “Grandpa” or “Gampa” now.  And a great one at that!  My kids adore you.  You engage them with all the same silly “made up” toys you did when we were kids.  Oh, and I have you to thank for PJ’s sincere and complete interest in cartoons.  Not today’s crap, but old skool stuff, like Betty Boop and Popeye.  Your cookie cheers over some Betty Boop, are classic.  Thanks Grandpa!

As far as Father’s go, I’m happy you were mine.  I wouldn’t change  my childhood for nothin’.  And I’m even more happy that my kids know a Grandpa that loves them, enjoys them and shows them that unconditional love that all children need.

Happy Father’s day, Papi!

~ Your daughter, Renae

1. mercerd Says:
   July 20th, 2009 at 4:58 pm

   interesting material, where such topics do you find? I will often go

Name (required)

Mail (will not be published) (required)

Website