Memories of Dad

I realize I’m a week late with a post about Father’s, but I’ve been moving, so I’m allowed to be a week behind. Right?

“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.”
—Jim Valvano

Valvano’s quote pretty much sums up my relationship with my dad. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I finally realized all the things he’d been telling me all along were really for my own good. He is the most patient, loving man I know and I count myself lucky to be his daughter.

From the time I was a little girl, I knew I could count on my dad.

When I was just tiny, I used to have terrible leg cramps at night. It never failed, my dad would hear me crying and come in and rub them for me until I was able to fall back asleep.

When I was in elementary school, I discovered I was good at spelling. I loved to be in the school spelling bee, and my dad put in countless hours helping me study the words so I could do my best. He was proud of me the year I won, and just as proud the year I didn’t.

My teenage years were rough on both of us, especially on my dad. Regardless, he always stood behind me. I remember one poignant moment when I watched my father cry, hurting for me and shedding tears I was unable to shed. He guided me back to safety through his never-ending love and acceptance.

Since I've been married and had children, my dad is a fun-loving grandpa. He takes the grandkids to the movie, for bike rides, and to the park. The kids’ favorite activity is going on walks with grandpa and collecting pockets full of treasures along the way.

Since Father’s Day just passed, take the time to record memories of your father. Whether they be good or bad, they are important to remember and preserve for your family. Jot down memories you have and then create a special scrapbooking layout about your dad.

Below are a few ideas to spark your imagination:
- Traditions with your dad.
- Physical characteristics you and your dad share.
- Activities you’ve done together.
- Things your dad would say.
- Places your dad lived.
- Jobs your dad had.
- Now and then pictures.
- Timeline of pictures through the years.
- Help your kids create a page about their dad.

Father’s day is the perfect time to remember Dad, but don’t forget to watch out for memorable moments you can scrapbook all year long. After he is gone, the pages you create will live on and help you and your children revisit all the precious memories.

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