It is 34 years ago tonight that my Dad passed away. He was the most wonderful Daddy anyone could wish for. I was only 29 when he died and have always wished he could have met Mike-they would have enjoyed each other. Mike has always reminded me of him-everything from a love of fishing and the outdoors to the choices in clothing and jobs-both liked browns and worked repairing machinery. I said goodnight and went to bed just after midnight, the nurse we had for nights woke me up about 3 am-I was the one that woke Mom and told her. It doesn't seem like 34 years ago.Hey Dad I still use the nickname you gave me. Gypsy

Dear Gypsy,

I'm rather late in reading your post, I apologize for that. Your words of your dad struck such a chord in me about missing my own dad. I do understand that the missing never goes away. Sometimes I go to his grave just to say hello. Sometimes I go to say, hey, Mom is sick and we need you to put in a good word up there. And he does. Sometimes I just go and cry. Life has never been the same without him. Mike sounds like a good one who has qualities you learned to appreciate years ago. That is so great.Your dad raised a good daughter. Take care of yourself.

Hi Gypsy, I loved reading how you came by your nickname. I am sure it now has such a good memory for you. I hate you didn't have lots more time with your dad to make many more.

Things like this are the reason I keep telling people to take time to make memories. It is so important to take a little time each day to just enjoy something (anything) about our LO that we are caring for. Those memories are what sustain us when we lose someone.

Thank you for sharing your memories with us. Love, M. White/M. Wheat

Thanks all of you. Reading your posts I have tears. It is strange how the years fly by-many years I haven't been as acutely aware of Dad on this date. Even the name Gypsy I didn't use for years until I got the Computer and came here and needed a name it just seemed to be right. Originally it came about when I moved off the island I had all my belongings in and on my car sort of like a gypsy caravan. (skis, dog house, bookcase on the ski-rack, backseat piled high and the dog and me in the front)-we must have been quite a sight. I moved around almost every year for about 5 years in the mid-60. Then I travelled for a year70-71-just my backpack so I guess the name was kind of fitting. This post has taken me from tears to smiles -think I'll just leave it at the Thanks guys. Gypsy

Dear Gypsy,

Your Dad sounds like a wonderful man. I know he raised a terrific daughter. Having to wake your Mother to give her the news of his passing must have been so difficult for you. When someone we love dies the pain is intense. But, it does get easier in time. You love for him shines through. Thanks for letting us know about this sad anniversary for you.

Vicki

Dear Gypsy -

It is bittersweet to have a father who is as wonderful as yours sounds, only to lose him at such a young age. I wish you had had more time with him, and it is a true testament to his love for you that 34 years later he is still so close in your heart. Though he wasn't with you long, he raised a fine daughter.

Though Mike may never have met your father, I'd imagine he has a rich and full understanding of the type of man he was from the stories you've told him - you have a gift for that.

Time moves on - love remains. Peace be with you as the memories of your Daddy fill your heart-
Melissa

My dear Gypsy (didn't know until NOW that your dad gave you that nickname ..... ..... thank you for sharing that - very sweet!!)

I know you miss him, honey. And, wouldn't it have been fantastic if Dad and Mike could have spent time together. They sound like kindred spirits.

Sorry you were the one who had to wake your Mom. That must have been so sad, in many ways.

You do your Dad PROUD, my friend. What a lovely person you are, and a loving daughter.

Love you,

Dear Gypsy...

A well chosen nickname which continues to give you the gift of your father's memory every time you hear it. How touching, even as you honor him these 34 years later... as you will honor him for the next 34 years to come. Thank you for sharing these moments with us.

Wishing you continued peace and contentment in your heart...
Joan Marie