A necklace.
If you work with me or know me you might have noticed I wear a silver necklace. It’s a longer necklace so the charm on it isn’t obvious unless I pull it out or it makes its way out of my shirt. What hangs from that necklace means more to me than most things do. It can’t be replaced. It’s my Dad’s thumbprint.
It’s hard to believe that my Dad has been gone for four years in September.
People leave memories with us that will last for the rest of our lives. Some of the memories my Dad and I shared were the best times of my life. Teaching me about football, and watching me learn to love it. Kameron being born, and what a great Pop he was. Mr. D and I getting married, knowing that the third time really was the charm. Going to Lambeau Field together, our first trip together! Watching the Packers play in Indianapolis, tailgating with those silly Indianapolis fans. Sunday football, coming over to my house every Sunday to watch the Packers play. Catching my first fish. Teaching me how to jump a car. The difference between a flat head and a phillips head screwdriver. How to check a breaker and change a fuse. How to buy a car. How to make home made french fries. That Mikesell’s Rippled Potato Chips work best with Dean’s French Onion Dip. And the way to his heart was through my deviled eggs. Those are just a few of the millions of things that he taught me.
The selfish part of me missed my Dad, even though I know he’s in a better place.
The worst part about it for me now is that I know he would be so proud of me (not that he wasn’t before.) He would be so ridiculously proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish. It really has been awesome, and I thank sincerely the people that have (REALLY) supported me (Firebelly Team – Duncan Alney) -my gratitude and your belief in me is immeasurable. I sincerely from the bottom of my heart thank you. I’m so happy!
Without my Dad there is a space in my heart that can’t be replaced. I don’t get to tell him about the awesome day I’ve had. I don’t have that smile, or pat on my shoulder anymore, he was the one person who always believed in me, no matter what the circumstances.
Things aren’t the same without you Dad, I love you and miss you so much.
I’m kicking ass Johnno, I hope you know.
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