I knew you, sunset, when you were still a sunrise...

[Mikimouse]

And now, 22 years and 14 hours later, I sit here, with you 2500 miles away and wonder how it happened so quickly. Do you ever wonder about me, as I do about you? If ever you get really curious, read the dedication in my Master's thesis, you may find it quite revealing. As for me, I still reminisce about the times that you and I sat in the family room, with me playing the guitar and singing to you while you danced around the room. I haven't forgotten, and never will. Happy birthday, dearest, and good fortune. Dad

[Reverend_Smitty]

1. such a nice tribute

:hug:

[Mikimouse]

2. She's a sweetheart, my older daughter...n/t

[Reverend_Smitty]

5. well if she's anything like you discribed...

I'm sure she's a great person

[Mikimouse]

6. Yes, she is...

I still have her 24 hour picture in my wallet after all these years. Her most recent pics are my screensavers. She just graduated with her undergraduate degree and will be starting graduate school in the Fall. She will be a fine sociologist.

[SeanQuinn]

3. That is more than adorable.

So well-written, very excellent work!

[Mikimouse]

4. Thank you, it comes from the heart...

Quite a person she has turned out to be. Her mother deserves the credit.

[cssmall]

7. Fatherhood

My one lie is that I am ready,
though I gather myself,
steeling my will and my passion,
in hopes that I can be.

An invisible weight shutters against
the crook of my arm, wriggling
as I lay here, bathing in time's green light
and staring at 3:13 a.m. never blinking.

Even in night's tender embrace,
I see golden curls and warm eyes,
pink dresses and tea parties.
Everything a person could want.

But, I lay here, wringing my hands,
fumbling for cigarettes in that same green light
gives me the imprint of you,
my failure not tainting you own.

So, in this much, I have learned,
that loving and having are two separate things,
but never more do you need me,
than I the memory of you.

(My advice to you, my friend.)