Daddy

Today is my Dad's 73rd birthday, except for the part where he passed away 9 years ago September 18th. 1999 to be exact. From complications of diabetes.

I miss him so much.

I miss the sound of his voice.

His sense of humor.

The funny words he made up--like hippicanarious.

I miss how he always called my sister and I SherriBeth--so he wouldn't have to worry about mixing up names:)

I miss just sitting and talking with him.

I miss hearing him tell our four little boys (my two and my sister's two) how my mom was best friends with Pocahontas and Sacajewea.

I miss how he never got to see those little boys grow up into fine young men. Never saw them play baseball. Never saw them receive awards for their amazing achievements. Never saw them play their musical instruments. Or meet the girls they dated. Or give them advice. Or tie their neckties for them.

I miss the crazy things he did. I remember the day before he was diagnosed with diabetes--he must have known what the result was going to be--he brought home chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. Everything chocolate. Donuts, milk, candy, pudding. My dad, my sister, and I had a big ol' feast. Ate until we were stuffed--and then ate more. The next day, when he went to the doctor's office, his blood sugar was off the charts.

I miss you handsome.