{Remembering Dad}

Today marked the first year of us bidding farewell to my Dad. I can't believe that it's been that long. Not a day pass by without me thinking of  him. I miss him dearly but I know that he's watching over me. We held a mass service for him this past Memorial Day in Vidalia. Memorial day has a totally different meaning to me now. Last Memorial day, I got an early call from my family that my Dad didn't wake up from sleep. It was a sad day, but I was somehow comforted by the thought that he died peacefully and didn't struggle. For some reason, I had the feeling that it will happen soon. He's been in the hospital for almost a month and he just wanted to be home--Vidalia was home to him.

My Dad is a kind man. A quiet man who loved his family with all his heart. I shared a special bond with him. Not a day would pass by, where I wouldn't talk to him. I gave him a call every single day and told him how my day was going. Ed also had a special bond with my Dad. They both have a great sense of humor and just enjoyed each other's company. Even in his last days, he made sure that just like his own children that Ed got his fair share of visiting hours in the hospitals.

It also amazes me that William, even at such a young age, "understands" that his Lolo is gone. Nobody told him this, but he tells people that his Lolo is in heaven and is an angel.

Sometimes I get sad that Samantha never really had the chance to get to know her Lolo. He would have loved seeing her grow. My Dad loves kids. He was always excited to see his grandkids.

I am comforted though by how much she loves my Mom. She laughs all the time with her an will often ask me to facetime with her Lola. My Mom is an amazing woman. I couldn't be more proud of her. She's a strong person. Her dedication and support to my Dad during his ill time is truly inspiring and a great example of demonstrating the marriage vows.

My parents are awesome people. As evident by the group of people who showed up at church and our lunch get together. In true memory of Dad, we had it at his favorite Chinese restaurant in Vidalia. The same place where we had his "80th" or oops 79th party :)

I love my family! Our parents did a great job instilling family values to us. I am very blessed to have a loving and supportive siblings. My Ate Tess was in the Philippines but she's definitely in spirit with us.

I love that we are surrounded by wonderful people who are family to us. We can not thank them enough for their continuous support and encouragement.

I love that I have a husband who is always comforting in difficult times. I know that my father is proud of him and couldn't be happier that I have him.