My father and his sister were born one year apart on December 19. Helen was born in 1917 and my father in 1918. I love looking at this photo, seeing them in the grass with their much loved dog, Gypsy. I love my father's eyes and how he looks at the camera. I love how my Aunt Helen looks playful and happy, the way I remember her in life.My father would have been 92 years old today. Everyday I see something, cook something, laugh or scoff at something, feel my heart break about something that reminds me of him. Reminds me of his shyness, his quietness, his quirkiness, his protectiveness, his love. If he knew, all these years later, how much his family still holds him gently in their hearts, he would know what a great job he had done as a dad and husband.
I love and miss you, dad, happy birthday.
The eyes have it, for sure. Much like you. xo
ReplyDeleteMy granny always said, "you're never really gone until nobody remembers your name."
ReplyDeleteIt's pretty clear that your dad is still in your thoughts and your heart...
very touching post
My mother was born in February of 1918. She's still here, more or less. Robin, I think your dad may be better off.
ReplyDeleteThis aging shit scares the hell out of me.
I love that photo too.
ReplyDeleteSuch a quietly happy moment.
My grandpa lifed till 92 and have no health problems althought he is smokers.
ReplyDeleteBecoming members clubs of the 90's that was dream of all, i would life for thousand years but like Metusallah or at least like my grandpa.
My dad died at 91. That was 17 years ago and I still miss him nearly every day. That's a great photo, Robin.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful memories. Sigh.
ReplyDeleteWonderful, soulful, tribute. I'm finding in these later days the experience of time lapping on my shores, as fresh as long ago and as moving. The Japanese call it 'aware'---a mixture of joy and sadness, that calls for sake, haiku or waka , when the wild mountain cherry petals fall. As always-----MandT
ReplyDeleteWonderful photo and memories. My Daddy lived to be 76 and died 24 years ago but like you, I think of him so often, especially when I look in the mirror.
ReplyDeleteWhat a delightful photo that is. Your father was a very handsome man, as your aunt's kind spirit shines through. Gypsy was a pretty nice-looking family member as well!
ReplyDeleteI still miss my stepfather--that heartbreak--every day.
Memories are awesome! My dad has been gone almost 20 years now. His birthday would have been on Dec 22nd. He passed away at the young age of 72. There's not a day goes by that I don't remember him.
ReplyDeletewhat a sweet post, and great photo. your dad done good. xoxo
ReplyDeleteI grew up never having a dad. Not one that ever loved me,at least.I've spent a lifetime longing to know what it feels like:a child who loves his father,or a father who loves this child.
ReplyDeleteI get great peace knowing that this love does truly exist, if now, only in memory and that which makes us whole. Thank you for this post.
I'll add to the chorus -- beautiful post, wonderful photo, and of course I see your dad in you and your other sibs.
ReplyDeleteYou are really doing some time tripping, my dear. A good way to spend some rainy days. xxoo
Oh, those eyes!
ReplyDeleteAnd, yes, remembering our younger selves and imagining our parents as younger selves - and watching our parents age and die and feeling ourselves age. It is both joyful and sad when the intellectual knowledge of the process becomes personal.
Lovely post today, Robin. You have the same eyes as your father-and those qualities he possessed and you admire, I see them in you. Your father would be proud and that is a gift that doesn't fade.
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday from one who has gone from one who never knew him! He sounds like a great soul!
ReplyDeleteThis is beautiful Robin. My Dad was born on Dec. 17, 1902, so he would have been 108 this year, and I was full of memories of him, too. I love the tribute you made to your father, and the wonderful photo you posted! Happy holidays to you and Rog. Wish we all lived closer!
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way about my dad, but you articulated it so well! Beautiful post.
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