Dad

I feel like I have talked about all of my immediate family members on this blog with one big exception; my Dad...That fact is certainly not indicative of any lack of the warm, loving feelings that I have for him. Quite the contrary. Perhaps it is the way he has softly and quietly been a presence in my life throughout the years...never demanding my attention...but, always being there. Maybe it is because he never asks for much from any of us...something that he probably had to learn while living in a household of 5 strong women. He is a good listener...again, because we probably didn't give him much opportunity to speak.

He has survived having his four daughters grow up and leave the nest....and he proudly put each of us through college to earn our degrees...and successfully be out on our own. He, himself, is a graduate of Brooklyn College during an era when getting a degree was not that common.

Dad was quite dashing in his younger years...and, still very handsome to this day. He observes much of the family craziness without getting too caught up in the drama. (smart man) But, then, this has always been his way. He is a gentle soul who's middle name is, interesting enough: Wolfe! Quite an irony.

Now in his 88th year he is incredibly computer savvy as well as quite the handyman around their condo. He was the first one in the family to hook up a webcam...and, now the rest of us have followed his lead.

Dad takes everything in life very slowly...and, for the most part, we have all gotten used to this. The table could be totally cleared, dishes done and dessert put out...as Dad is still finishing up his meal carefully and methodically. It is probably the healthiest way to eat...but, the rest of us are in way too much of a hurry to recognize that.

We could all probably learn a lot from Dad if we would just take a deep breath and slow down a bit. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be in any of our natures...But I am going to slow down long enough to tell you that you are, and always have been, an inspiration to me. I love you, Dad.