Thankful to have such a great Dad

Somethings are outside of my control, but I am still able to see and focus on so many wonderful things that I did get to share with my father. This post will likely be updated as I think of new things to add. No one is perfect, but if I could pick a Dad I'd still pick the one I got. If we could go around again, I think we'd both probably change some things. But my love for him wouldn't change a bit and it hasn't.

I can't believe you could teach me how to ride a bike. It's even more shocking that you could ride along with me and record a video of it at the same time. How is that even possible? My dad is a superhero.

All those times cleaning the closet. You know, they say messy workspaces are a sign of intelligence. I guess it depends on who you ask. The internet will tell you anything you want to hear, so just keep looking. I had so much fun in that closet with him. My aptitude for accumulating clutter is unsurpassed. We played in there for hours. Well, Dad was encouraging the cleaning aspect of this, but there were just too many cool toys that I hadn't seen in forever. I don't know how they kept getting so buried. He was always so good at finding the best treasures in there.

There was a jacket that I loved most of all. Of all Dad's clothes of all time. It was a light denim jacket with collars that extended all the way past the shoulders. This jacket fit me perfect like it was custom fit for me. I was probably about the same size as dad when he was wearing it, just not as tall. So excited for sleeves that were long enough. Straight out of the 70's. Gorgeous. I think it was a gift from Mom. Dad gave me this jacket when I was in college or just right after I moved out. I freaking loved that jacket so much I kept it home safe the night my apartment burned down. I miss that jacket more than anything else I lost that day (which was everything, unfortunately).

Dad has the best sense of humor, witty, deadpan. Sometimes pretty out there. But I love it! I'm out there too on those off-color weird jokes. I know where it comes from. Thanks Dad! 

I loved that he makes me think. That's a gift that will keep on giving. His guidance to ask more questions and seek answers will be with me forever. I love that he was able to learn and was open to ideas and new ways of doing things. I hope, in this way, I can be just like him. Seems like as you age you are more resistant to new ideas, changes, perspectives... but this never impacted Dad. He was always interested in learning more, figuring it out.

How is it even possible to be so organized? basement full of meticulously organized tools, bolts, transistors, pinball parts. He has every tool ever made and they are all in their place. I think I took this side after Mom. My tools have never looked tidy or been that easy to find. I know he wanted me to be neater, less messy. It never clicked. No excuses, but excuses! AuDHD does not make this aspect easier. Especially when discovering it so late into adulthood.

I am sad that he's leaving, but I am so thankful that I even got to know him at all.