Memories of my Dad


 When I turned 16, Daddy took us for a "surprise." We piled into the car and drove to Fishkill, NY. Little did I know, he had bought us tickets to see Johnny Maestro sing. I had NO idea what was going to happen...They went to start "16 Candles" and Johnny stopped and said that we have a very special girl in the audience celebrating her Sweet 16th and that they had a present for that girl. ME. I was mortified (very shy) and walked down to the stage to accept an album and CD. Daddy did the same thing 2 years later for my little sister, Erin. Every time I hear Johnny Maestro I think of my Dad. I think of that day. 

I never realized until now what my Dad was going through the night my Nana died as he sat in the living room with the stereo blasting making tapes to play at her services. I'm doing the same thing now with doo wop, Dean Martin, Al Jolson and the like thinking now I know exactly how he felt. This sucks.

Comments

Debby said…
Kelly,this is not an easy time for you. You are right -it sucks. I was not close to my dad but I do know when he passed it was best for him as he was in pain and was very sick. To lose your dad so suddenly is awful. But you posting and remembering is actually helping you even though you don't feel it now.
Cat said…
Yes, it does suck!! I am so sorry you are having to go through this. Hang in there and hang on to all your precious memories. They will help you get through this when nothing else seems to help.
lauren bergold said…
oh kelly, i am so very sorry for your loss. there are no words, except to say that you're already doing the only thing that really helps: savoring & treasuring all of the wonderful memories you have of your dad! ♥♥♥♥♥
Desert Mermaid said…
... I wonder, Kelly, how much that music will become a haven of healing, and then a party-central where you can still be with, find, your dad ... later, given time.
Sandy said…
Such a wonderful story. Your Dad was a great Dad and wonderful man. He made such great memories for you and Erin. I know you will miss him so much. Thanks for sharing this story and the song.
Deb said…
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family during this tender time. Having gone through "losing" both my parents prematurely, I can appreciate some of what you're experiencing and totally agree that it sucks. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead and be able to smile even through your tears. Blessings!
Elizabeth said…
I am so sorry to hear the sad news. My thoughts are with you and your family.
SunnySunflower said…
Hello Kelly,
We are strangers, only connect through your blog (which I avidly read) and Pinterest.

Your story below touched me. Two years ago we lost my father-in-law, suddenly to cancer. One minute he was traveling through China, learning Chinese and enjoying retirement. The next, he was lying in a nursing home, wearing a diaper, and we were feeding him Dr. Pepper with a spoon. Dick was the only Dad I knew. He was my anchor and loved my as his own. (I was fortunate to have a Dad that was kind to me, but Dick managed, eventually, to fill that hole my biological Dad left in me)

Then, I found myself, on the floor, combing through family pictures, listening to old Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra classics, putting together his memorial service and slide show. It was painful, but, for the artist in me, it was also therapeutic. I miss Dick and there is a hole where he once was. But, the hole isn’t empty, void, and dark. It is filled with glorious memories, a father’s love, and a dear, dear friend.

My thoughts and prayers are with you. You are strong, able, and your art will guide your path!
Debbie said…
Oh Kelly...what a wonderful story of your Dad's love for you & your sister. My Dad has been gone for almost 21 years now...I still miss him. My heart is with you & your family. Sending big hugs your way.
xo
Debbie
===^..^===
Pattie said…
Sending love and big hugs and prayers to you and family, Kelly. <3
Carol said…
Hope those beautiful memories will help sustain you during your grief. Sounds like you had a wonderful dad.
Sharyn said…
Dearest Kelly-I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. This must be a difficult time for you and your family but memories of the good times can be soothing, even if only for a little while.

Will you be returning to the east coast for services? Please let me know.

Biggest hugs and thoughts of comfort to you
Sharyn

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