When I think of my Dad, the first words that come to mind are steadfast, genuine, solid.
Growing up, I don’t remember my Dad being particularly playful. He was more inclined to teach me important things about the world, like how to calculate how soon we’d arrive in the next town based on speed and distance, or how to ride a bike. While we may not always have appreciated each lesson at the time, he was always there when we needed him.
Dad is always up for a chat, but he’s a quiet achiever, an introvert. He loves to learn, and has ingrained a love of learning in his children. Long ago, he taught himself how to play the clarinet and, at nearly 80, has recently taken up guitar lessons and spends a significant amount of time at the Genius Bar learning new tricks on his various Apple devices. He retired years ago, but never rests on his laurels.
My Dad is not one to worry too much about reading an instruction manual, but everything he builds is steadfast and solid too. I barely need to ask before he’s on the doorstep, ready to construct a set of bunk beds for the boys or install a new sink in the kitchen. Being a builder by trade, his children often benefit from his craftsmanship.
He’s not one for fanfare, but I have always felt the love and strength of my Dad, standing behind me in my finest hours and my darkest days.
Love you, Dad. Thank you for loving your tribe and sharing your infinite wisdom. Happy Father’s Day x
sam: I love this photo of you and your beloved Daddy. My, how you showered him with gifts this Father’s Day. Aside from the school craft and Fathers Day Stall gifts, you spent hours working on a special book for Daddy to tell him all the things you love doing with him.
nicholas: Daddy and I love snuggles with our boys in the mornings, and you love being on our bed, even if you’d rather play than cuddle. You think it’s hilarious when you’re lying between us and we’re both looking at you. You give us a few cuddles, then spend the rest of the time giggling and rolling and climbing over the top of us.
charlie: Some days I look at you and think I’m definitely going to need a shotgun to keep the girls away in future 😉 You have been asking so many insightful questions lately, reminding me how quickly you are growing up. You came into our bed early one morning this week, snuggled in to me and went back to sleep. I am treasuring each and every morning cuddle while they last.
Joining in the 52 Project at Practising Simplicity ~ a portrait of each of my boys every week in 2014.
Hi Annie just reading your blog and want you to know what an inspirational and strong family you are. I came across your site on my newsfeed through mutual friends. My son attends the same school and your story is not unlike mine!! I’m currently going through chemo for breast cancer and our youngest daughter (we have four) also has special needs, an extra chromosome and hearing loss. It sometimes seems unreal to have so much going on in one family!! I read and I truly empathise!! Thoughts and prayers with you and your family you are super mum!! Xxx
Thanks so much for your lovely message, Sara. I’m sorry to hear you are facing the challenge of breast cancer at the moment, especially when you’re obviously a very busy mum and no doubt don’t have time to slow down for treatment when you’re already juggling enough. Sending lots of love and light to you as you recover, and hopefully one day soon we’ll cross paths in real life xx
Thank you! I’m staying positive and we are taking everything in our stride. It’s amazing how our perspective and outlook on life has shifted and feeling blessed just for little things like having one another. Feeling pretty grateful to be part of such a wonderful supportive community and school also, I’m sure you will agree! And will absolutely sing out if I see you about!! Take care of yourself and precious family. Xx