During our last conversation he was sad because he was "going to miss so much." He was right. I'm sad for him and for myself but I'm even sadder for Asa and Norah. They're missing out on having an amazing Pok Pok who would love them both so much. He was so proud of Asa and I can almost hear him laughing when I imagine telling him about the crazy, sweet, affectionate, and energetic toddler he has become. And Norah. Daddy would love how easygoing she is and her sweet smile. They deserve to know and love him and it is so unfair that they will grow up without him.
I'll just continue to tell them stories and show them pictures and hope that they feel a connection to him on some level. ...I suppose I can also continue to drink his share of lattes (in addition to mine of course), have an occasional Corona, support TX musicians, always adopt shelter pets, and dress Norah in outfits with pink flamingos plastered on them. All of these things will make me smile because they would make him smile. :)
The anniversary of my mom's death is ALWAYS a hard day. And as you said, we ALL get shortchanged by the loss of a parent too soon....when they had so much life left to live! Although Ellie has some actual memories of my mom, I've told enough stories about Nona that Lily & Lucy now speak as though they have memories of her, too (she died when they were less than 3 months old). The girls know all sorts of things about Nona, and often will comment on things they think Nona would have really liked (e.g., "Nona would have loved that big, bright moon!"). All that is to say keep telling those stories and showing the kiddos pictures of your dad...it's working, I promise. Love to you, Amy!
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