Father's Day

Father’s Day, celebrated the third Sunday in June, gives Fathers all around a day to be fussed over – taken out for dinner – given gifts – some useful – some not so useful - or just left alone in their favorite chair with their remote control!

 

My Dad is actually my step-father.  He came into my life when I was just a young girl – about 7-1/2 years old.  He won my heart while dating my Mom, by handing me a teeny puppy through a screen window of our ground-floor apartment.

 

We ended up moving from that apartment to our first house in Syosset LI – with a large backyard.  My dog Pocchi came along as well.  Many years passed, many moves as well - to another house in Levittown, then back to the city to an apartment in Rego Park Queens.  We moved once again to Astoria and I lived there until I was married in 1975.

Being part of a blended family – especially during a time when most were not sure how to exactly blend families – we had many difficult times.  But as we grew and time moved on, I realized how much I cared for my Dad, and how much he cared for me as well. 

My mom became very ill and Dad’s strong-willed Italian temperament was definitely put to the test.  His heart proved to outweigh any of the toughness I knew growing up, as he cared for my Mom for years, lovingly and completely.

Mom died 19-1/2 years ago – I sometimes can’t believe it’s been that long.  Dad lost the love of his life – and has even reflected on the many things that he “could have done better” for Mom as well as for all of us.  To me this is a true testament to the softening of his heart – being the strong Italian, disciplinarian he was.  Sorry to keep bringing up the Italian in him – but for those who are Italian – first born or generations down the line – you understand what an Italian Dad is made up of!

Dad is now 84 – will be 85 in August of this year.  His joy is seen in his eyes anytime his family is around him.  Between me, my 2 sisters, my 2 step-sisters and step brother, and a ridiculous number of grandchildren, he’s most happy when we are happy as well.  He’ll never admit it – but he waits on Father’s Day for each phone call, card, or invitation to breakfast or to dinner.  The more of us that can be together – the happier is his day.

He didn’t have an easy life – he worked hard and struggled most of the time – but did the best he could.  He is now retired, spending most of his days taking long walks each morning and afternoon, getting together with the few friends that are still living, checking out every new movie that comes out – then giving me his critique of each, playing a few card games on the internet, and watching movies at home as well. 

Spending time with him, laughing at ourselves and life, remembering the many years we’ve shared – is a blessing to me. 

I look forward to celebrating my Father – Dad – Pop to his grandchildren.  A day to show him that I do appreciate him, love him with all my heart, and look forward to many more Father’s Days with him.

 

 

 

Happy Father’s Day Dad – I love you!