A Year of Memories

So many memories thought of over the last year. Today it will be one year since dad went from his earthly home to join mom . So many hours going through memories and thinking of the many many special times spent with dad and mom.

Clearing out the Condo , getting it ready to sell and walking out one last time knowing that part of my life was gone for good.

Dad and mom were two of the most caring, and sharing people I have ever known. Their love for each other was such a blessing. 

I have always said that my parents were the rock of our family and for the last five years of dads life he was our rock. In going through a tote of pictures that belonged to my parents I discovered this photo of dad taken at the side entrance of the Choate family home  on Choate Island , Ipswich, Massachusetts. I guess saying dad was the rock of the family really met a lot more than I realized. 

We traveled to the Island in 1999 and in 2000 with my parents. What a wonderful time we had researching out Choate ancestors. Ninety of our ancestors were born in this house and the island was owned by the Choate family for 250 years. It is now a wildlife refuge and just three building are on the island. The Choate House, Proctor barn from a few hundred years ago and what is the caretakers home.  

Sharing my message today.

Dad
I thought of you with love today but that is nothing new.
I thought of you yesterday and days before that too.
I think of you in silence as I often speak your name.
All I have are memories and your picture in a frame
Your memory is my keepsake with which I'll never part.
God has you in His keeping. I have you in my heart.

Dad you and mom were the rock that held us together all these years. It just does not seem like it has been a year since you joined mom in your heavenly home. We are so thankful to have you as our dad.We could always come to you and talk to you. You never looked down on us and would always encourage us. You made us girls what we are today. You taught us to live life to the fullest, to laugh and to love. There has not been a day this past year that I have not thought about you or mentioned you. I never knew that I could shed so many tears. 

As I said dad just a year ago. I will not say good bye but will say see you later. 

We Love You.