This is one of my all-time favorite photos of my wonderful Dad. It was taken on a hike up to Alberta Falls near Estes Park, Colorado. Dad was noted for hamming it up for the camera, as in this case... making it look like he's pushing the boulder off the mountain. :) I think this was probably taken in the 1960's, but I'm not sure.My Dad was THE BEST! He always had a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. He loved to hunt and fish and spend time with us. We went camping and boating almost every weekend in the summer when we were growing up. Dad taught my two sisters and I to water ski. His method was full of positive encouragement and he made us keep trying until we got up! He loved the great outdoors and enjoyed planting a big garden. Nothing went to waste either, he cooked it all or gave it away! We always joked when we ate one of Dad's famous "stews", that you just never knew what could be in it! lol
Sadly, my dear Dad died of colon cancer in 1981. He was only 51 years old! Through it all, he never once gave up and kept such a postive outlook. It's been over 20 years ago now and I still miss him so much. Thankfully, I have so many beautiful memories of times spent with him and I'll treasure them always. Happy Father's Day Dad!
A special serendipity side-note: Jim and I were vacationing with friends a couple years ago in Estes Park and actually found this same boulder!!! No kidding, I knew the minute I saw it that it was the same one in that photo of my Dad taken so many years before! Can you imagine my surprise? I like to think God planned this just for me. :)
My hubby, Jim - 2002
6 comments:
I know how it feels. My dad passed away 10 years ago this year and i miss him everyday and still think about how my life would have been like if he was still here, the conversations we would have had, the experiences we would have shared. He was 41 years old and I was 10 at the time and growing up without him has just been hard.
What a lovely story and how wonderful to have found that same rock and add to be able to add to the memory. I lost my father over 22 years ago, but there are always memories that will bring a smile to my face.
Oh Pam, I loved reading about the sweet memories you have of your dad. Don't you love those unexpected "God winks" when you encounter something special He's provided to make you smile, as in the boulder you and Jim came across in Estes Park.
It's so cool that you found the same boulder. And what fond memories you have. Thanks for sharing. I just love sweet stories!
Amazing how God shows himself to us!! Keep remembering all the good times and your dad will never leave!
My Dad's been gone for 33 years and I still remember him as if it were yesterday. I'm glad you have such wonderful memories, for that is what makes their lives count! As for finding that same rock, now I know why the word 'serendipity' appears in your blog!
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