I knew if I kept my pace I’d easily be sidetracked and procrastinate, so I set February as my goal to make things happen. February 1st is one for the books! This day has been and will be a day of change for me.
What better way to enter the world of blogging on this day?!
Seven years ago (2/1/12), I was driving on 275 and jumped off the Loveland exit to take in the phone call I’ll never forget. Someone cannot make up the confusion or disbelief that was swirling around in my head. There I sat, parked next to a car-wash coming to grips that my dad had passed. Years continue to fly by, but the details of that day are etched in my head. We found out that my Dad took matters into his own hands when he left this world. I stood in front of our friends and family and said goodbye to my first true love and faced my first devastating heartbreak. As years pass my heart aches a little less, there is no question I miss him dearly. There were many lessons my dad instilled, I’m sure he didn’t realize the influence he had. But the craziest of all I feel like he has taught me more in his abrupt way of exiting and leaving me behind…
He dealt with some inner demons, and I can rest assured that my attempts to provide support were true and unconditional. I could take this in so many directions, but death is part of this life. Rather than get caught in the negativity of this life event, I have embraced our memories and the unique connection we shared. I will not lie; I often ‘shoot the bird his way’ as I wish he wasn’t gone and wish he would have said goodbye. But I absolutely love how my dad’s soft eyes jump out of my brother and me. I also have these proud moments when my brother tells me ‘that sounded like dad’. I find myself talking with him and think if he was to respond I’d freak out! There were many frustrating moments, but the one constant and thing I love most was the enjoyable laughter we shared. Those who know me, know that I’m not afraid to laugh and tend to goof off in weird situations. I get it honest!
One could easily get caught up in the selfish reason for leaving, but in time I have reevaluated the importance of staying connected with those close to you. Appreciate the time you have with them and find a bit of laughter in the awkward times in life. The saying is nothing short but true, “life is too short”. Laugh often, and yes, time does heal.
Just as you could trace my Dad’s story on the scars of his face, I hope to drop traces of my life and experiences through this new adventure. Happy February 1st my friends. 😊
