Remembering My Dad On What Would’ve Been His Birthday

Pardon the video quality. This was all I could do. But I wanted to share it with you.

I still miss my Dad. Today would have been his birthday. I live with missing him every single day. If you've lost a parent whom you loved dearly, then I know you know what I mean.

He died in March of 2011 of a glioblastoma. Thankfully, the entire time he was sick it was relatively painless. At least, physically. As time goes on, it does get easier. But, it doesn't ever fully go away. It's almost as if your heart just makes room for missing someone you loved as you go on through your life.

He was such a big personality. Like many of his, he was complex. In some ways, he was difficult and melancholy, which is understandable considering some of the pain he walked through during his life.

At the same time, he was also joyful and magical. He always sought to make the days feel less ordinary. He LOVED music and was a gifted musician. Honestly, I wish he could have spent more time focusing on the music he loved so dearly. But he always took care of us. On top of that, holidays and family vacations were extra fun because he was there. He could walk into a room, pull focus, add his signature sense of humor, and have the entire room laughing in minutes.

He, along with my Mom, inspired my love of music--of all kinds. He was an accomplished drummer and guitarist, and had an incredible voice. He'd sometimes just get out his guitar and start singing while we were making dinner and the evening would become an impromptu musical. I miss that. I miss him.

Happy Birthday Dad. I love you always.

(Video above is him playing with his friends at my parent's high school reunion. Cream's "Crossroads.") 

Here are a few more of his favorites: