Wednesday, June 24, 2009

* I Saw the Light *

*Update* The song player has been changed...I can only listen to the song so much before I end up curled up in a ball on the floor. Not really, but you know what I mean! You can surely find it on youtube if you need your fix...

Some people might think that this first song playing is a little 'hokey'. It won't be on here forever, however it will be on here for the next week or so...Give me a minute and I'll explain. If you don't want to cry today, then maybe you should hit the back button and check out some other blogs.

I'm doing this post a little early, because I know I won't have time on Friday to give it justice.

June 24. sigh. 15 years ago, on Friday, my dad had a massive heart attack and left us way too early. Cody was mowing yards, my dad was playing golf with his best buddies, and my mom and I were going to see a movie, 'Baby's Day Out'. Yes, I remember the movie. I remember that day like it was yesterday. For some of you, this may be more than you want to know about my life...but you know how I like to use this blog as my therapy...but I also would like to make a book out of it one day for Trey and Emery. Ahem, back on topic. As my mom and I were pulling out of the drive way for the movie, my dad was pulling in. In his forest green Ford Taurus SHO. I told you I remembered...anyway, the windows were rolled down and I think the whole street could hear the music blaring, 'I Saw the Light'. See the connection now? That was the last time I saw my dad. (However, if you hit next over there on my music player...go ahead, I'll wait... I think that would be his new anthem.)

Stuff I remember? I remember the one time he was supposed to give me a spanking, notice the word supposed? I was daddy's girl. I remember how happy he was when Nana (his mom) ran over the Christmas lights in the drive way. I remember he and I having snowball fights in Illinois. I remember knowing if I was having a good game if he was still there after half time. I remember how he would roll the windows down at the beach and blare the Beach Boys, and how Cody and I would sink down to the floor boards in order to not be seen! Here's the best story: I stayed home sick from school one day, right before Christmas break...I stumbled upon QVC and saw this bear holding a camera. I called my mom...she said NO. I called dad...SCORE! Daddy's girl.

My dad pushed me hard when it came to sports. Man, we had some knock down drag outs. One time we went three days with out talking. Not. one. word. In not so many words, he told me 20 points wasn't good enough in a junior high basketball game. He later apologized, remember...I was daddy's girl. As I went thru college, I often wondered what he thought. If he was proud? When I couldn't go any more, he made me go more...even though he wasn't there. Does that make sense? In October, I'm being inducted into the SFA Sports Hall of Fame. I cried when I got the letter. Why? I'm pretty sure he's proud now. I'm pretty sure he'll be there with me, when I'm nervous as all get out on the 50 yard line during the football game.

The only time I find myself sad...is when I watch Trey and Emery. They would have him wrapped around every finger! Enough of the sad stuff...I know he watches over us, and knows everything that goes on. Let's go to the pictures!


He was a character!
Mom and Dad
I made this scrapbook page to hang up at school
last year for Veterans Day...
One of my favorites...
Santa!
Easter...
We were probably watching Matlock...
The Fam...
Whew, this was a long post...A very long, scatter-brained post (that's me)...but he deserves it. You never stop missing them, I think you just get a little stronger. I might also mention what an awesome job my mom did picking up the pieces and being there for Cody and me. She's pretty much amazing. Added note: today would have been my mom and dad's 37th anniversary. Okay, I'm done now. Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend...We're definitely looking forward to ours!

6 comments:

Billie said...

What a special post today! I want you to know that I have felt the past 7+ years that I have known your Dad through you and your family. I am certain Trey and Emery will find that, too. I also remember the day you were recognized at SFA as the top female athlete of the year and how I could feel your Dad there with you. You are very special and we love you and are very proud of you. We feel blessed to have you in our family and to be the Mother of two of our sweet Grandchildren.

Tammy said...

Oh Kristy... he would be SO proud of you. And yes, you made me cry. I'm so sorry he isn't here to see your sweet kiddos, but I know he sees them, somehow. {Hugs}

Stephanie said...

Kristy...I am bawling! What a sweet way to remember your dad. I love the little details of your last memories of him and the songs that remind you of him.

What a loving post. I'm sure your dad is happy you have such great memories of him.

(I know you don't know me, but I found your blog a month or so ago and have read it when I can....couldn't let this great post go by without commenting)

Crystal said...

I remember...and I apologize for not being a better friend and coming to be there for you. I've thought about you throughout the years, and I have often wondered how you and your family were. I am glad we are intouch again.

I think moms are a blessing in our lives and they are our rocks! We have a lot to live up to. I hope you have a blessed day. You and your family are in my prayers. Love ya!

Suesan said...

Beautiful Beautiful post! Thank you for sharing. Congrats on your honor!

Steph said...

I want to say congrats on your hall of fame induction! Your dad would be proud. Not only because you are getting an award,but also because the amount of work it took to get it! You are also a great mom, wife and friend. He would be very proud of your life's accomplishments!