Daddy and I have always had a special bond. Maybe it's because I was his first born daughter after seeing three boys come before me. Or maybe it's because I put him through the ringer when I was a teenager. It could be because I take the time to heed his well spoken and thought out advice. Whatever it is, my dad and I are close and I do cherish the times we have together. Particularly when it's just the two of us.
On the way home from Allentown today, he took a detour. I was a little confused as to why he made that right hand turn at the light, because I have always went straight, ready to put Allentown far behind me so I can get home quickly. So, a little confused, I looked over at him and asked, "Daddy, why did you turn back at the light?"
He winked at me and asked me how often I get out of the (my) house.
"Well, it's a rare occasion that gets me out of the living room, let alone the house."
He laughed his contagious laugh and said, "Well, I'm doing you a favor. You don't get out much, and this way home is alot more scenic."
So, I leaned back into the passenger side seat and put my head into a position that gave the best view to look out the window. I was indeed going to enjoy the view. My usual commute home from Allentown is Rt. 100, through little towns and past lots of shops and restaurants. Cars, gas stations, traffic lights galore.
Daddy's route?
Windy roads that cut through deep woods and beautiful landscapes. Flowers and birds. Big spacious homes and tiny cute cottages alike. Hardly any traffic. It wasn't long before I had no idea as to where we were... Let alone how long this particular route would take.
About three minutes or so into this new change of terrain and scenery for me, I had to make a few phone calls. My first phone call turned into a dropped call. Sighing with a bit of frustration, my dad suddenly pulled into the parking lot of a cute little church.
I asked him what we were doing there and he said, "Go ahead. Make your phone calls. I want to make sure you have good reception for awhile."
So, I thanked him. And with gratitude I redialed the phone and made the three phone calls that I needed to make.
About three quarters of the way home, I finally started to recognize the buildings and landscape. I excitedly told Daddy that I knew where we were.
He looked at me and said, "I knew where we were the whole time sweetie."
I almost started to cry.
Isn't that just the sweetest thing a good dad could say to his daughter?
She, confused about where she is and not knowing what is around the next turn. Looking for stability and answers, she turns to the first man in her life for guidance... And he is always there. Always and forever holding her hand and helping her up after she has fallen.
I love my dad. He was the first "love of my life". He has seen me through some of the hardest times and most difficult decisions that I ever had to face. And when I married my husband, he was the first one (on my side of the family) to say "Congratulations!" and really mean it... I couldn't imagine the thoughts going through his head when he knew some other man was going to take over. Some other man was going to be helping me, guiding me, and holding my hand through life's sometimes trying days.
Even if John and I were separated, due to hunting trips or work trips, I always know Daddy is there for me to fall back on. To catch me if I happened to misstep. To kill all eight legged arachnids. To fix the broken lamp so I can see in my living room.
Yes, my dad has always be there for me.
I don't ever want to think about how my life would be without him.
So, while I still have him, I will appreciate him. I will hug him a little tighter next time we see each other. I will look at him for a bit longer. I will really pay attention to what he has to say. I will never take him for granted. I will always look up to him...
This one is for my dad.
Daddy.
I love you Daddy!
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