…I lost my friend, my comic relief, my dad. This past year has been the hardest of my life with uncontrollable emotional outbursts and continual flashbacks, but I’m learning to cope. I’m learning that memories last a lifetime. I’m learning that these strange nuisances and occurrences are messages from you. I’m learning to live each day to its fullest and to love unconditionally. I’m learning that your inherited stubbornness can be used for the betterment. I’m learning to sing out loud and not care if it’s in tune or not. I’m learning to laugh everyday because it truly is the best medicine. I’m learning that if you watch Jeopardy every night you’ll get more than one answer correct. I’m learning that an ice cold Coors in a frosty mug can actually taste okay. I’m learning that beans really are a magical fruit. I’m learning that the beach truly is the best place to be. I’m learning to embrace my unique or rather quirkiness. I’m learning to be a forever kid. I’m learning to shoot for the stars. I’m learning that anything is possible if you set your mind to it and believe in yourself. I’m learning to tell those important to you that you love and care about them everyday. I’m learning that although you aren’t here in body, you’ll forever be here in spirit. I’m learning that I will never forget you, but that your memories and attributes will continue to live on through others. On today especially Dad, I’ll remember you. I love you forever and always!
At 10:47am Ontario time, and 4:37pm France time, Daniel and I found a little café in Lyon to do a cheers to Dad. It was a bittersweet moment, but as the sun shone brightly upon us, I knew it was Dad shining his pearly whites through and cheersing us back.
Thanks for watching over me Dad, for keeping me safe, and for loving me unconditionally. I can only hope that when I have my own children, they’ll always know how much I love them, just as I knew with you!
Out With Erin 