Hi Dad…..

It’s your turn for a letter from me. This coming Sunday is Father’s Day and as always, I’m thinking about you. You passed away almost 9 years ago and there’s rarely a day I don’t think about you, talk to you, or just miss you.

I thought this photo was perfect because Father’s Day always falls right around Jimmy’s and my anniversary. 44 years ago you walked me down the aisle and into his arms. I had just turned 23! Wow….Such a baby. I still remember the excitement and nervousness I felt as you and I made that mile long walk toward him. (Okay, that was a big exaggeration but it felt long to me!). I was so glad I could hang on to your arm!

And I’ve been holding on to his hand ever since that day. Thank you for giving me the courage to say “yes” and walk into an unknown world with such an incredible role model of what a healthy marriage can look like. You and mom showed all four of your kids so much in how you loved and respected one another.

Growing up as your youngest child and only daughter I know I was spoiled in so many ways. And I also know I became quite the tom boy because of the situation. For the most part, you treated me as one of “the boys”. I definitely got my love of sports and being outside from you!

But while you were away on oil wells so many days of the year, Mom and I grew close. She was the one I called almost daily when after Jimmy and I got married and moved to Menlo Park. (Northern California). And she was the one who came and stayed with us after each of our 4 children were born, teaching me how to take care of a baby!!!! I was definitely clueless with Jimbo, our first!

When her Alzheimer’s began to get worse, you became the one I called most days. And vice versa. We developed a relationship that was such a gift to me and I treasure the memories. You became my second “rock”. (Jimmy my first!🤗). I actually still have one of your voice messages on my phone so I can remember your voice.❤️

You and mom grew up and lived in Oklahoma City for 85 years, but as her disease progressed, you made the incredible decision to move to Fort Worth so Jimmy and I could help you both.

Those years gave us Sunday dinners, square dancing at The Stayton with all the 80+ year olds, Tuesday morning golf followed by lunch (loser buys!), and you being the first one through the door at my art shows—always insisting on buying something. Oh so sweet are these memories, Dad.

You loved her until your heart and body gave out. It was and is one of the most incredible love stories I’ve ever witnessed. I pray every day that I can love Jimmy like I watched you love Mom.

Thank you for always believing in me, whether I was teaching fitness, raising babies, or standing in a studio covered in paint. Knowing you were cheering me on gave me more confidence than you'll ever know.

I miss you so much but know I will be with you again someday. That makes me happy. Please give Mom a hug for me.

Love,

Lynnie

P.S. I guess I need to figure out how to include art “stuff” in these letters!

A Letter to Dad (Copy)

A Letter to Mom