Thirteen years ago on this date my loving Father died.  On this Thanksgiving Day, I’m thankful for my many memories of him, his humor, and his love.  

     Dad had a wonderful deep voice that could carry from the pulpit to the back of the church without the use of a microphone.  His scent was Old Spice aftershave and cigarettes.  I remember his laughter as the most marvelous thing in the world to hear.

     One of my earliest memories was going with him to the barbershop.  On the way from the car to the barber, we walked past a pet store.  They had kittens in the window.  Typical of a small child I began to beg him to get me one.  I begged him all the while the barber cut his hair.  I begged him as we walked back past the pet store window. 

     On the way home, the tiny black kitten thought it was great fun to climb on my father while he drove.  I can still picture the kitten climbing on his shoulder and Dad complaining about how he should have known better than to buy a kitten.

     I remember many walks with Dad.  How safe I felt with my little hand enclosed in his large, warm hand.  I had to take giant steps to keep pace with his military stride. 

    When he had to travel to far away lands, I remember the dolls he’d bring home with him, one for each daughter.  We were never able to pick a doll by anything other than by the box so no one could claim he gave a better one to another.

     I remember my teen years where I’m sure I drove the poor man round the bend more than once.

     There’s the memory of my wedding day thirty-five years ago where my Father gave us our vows and pronounced us man and wife. 

     I remember his last years.  He lived far away and I couldn’t visit him often.  He had numerous strokes that kept him from speaking, and most of the time, he didn’t know anyone.  I remember the last time I saw him, how when I used my pet name for him there was a lively spark of recognition behind those gray-blue eyes and he smiled at me.

     I have only a few pictures of him and those along with many more memories are my greatest treasure.

     Today, I hope each of you will make some wonderful new memories, tell your loved ones how much they mean to you, and remember, be thankful for what you have.