Kelly and I are different in a lot of ways, but as I read her memoir I was surprised just how much we were alike, and couldn't help but to immediately recognize that there were HUGE similarities between us. She loves being a mom, feels destined to have four, feels loyalty to her brothers, adores her husband, uses the word, "yup", and she has a love for her father, like mine, that's beyond description. Robert must read this book. I need him to see that it's not just me. I'm not the only daughter out there with a connection to her dad that's bigger than life. 
Maybe I do. Guilty, I'm sure. I apologize, but my dad is one of the best people I know. He's not perfect, I have learned as I have grown older, but I must say, he is pretty darn close. He is one of the most hard working, upbeat, friendly, good hearted, people you'll ever meet. In fact, just the other day I had the opportunity to speak to an old friend. We chatted for hours, catching up on everything life had thrown at us in the past year. When the subject of my dad arose, she laughed out loud at what a silly guy he was and how much she missed my dad. She was trying to remember the funny nickname he gave her. He did. He gave nicknames and sang silly songs for every friend who came to visit. He made each of them feel as if they were the most special person in the world, the best friend we had, the visitor we never wanted to leave.
I guess that's one of the biggest reasons I love him so much. He has always made me feel this way, special, loved, important. In fact just the other day I was feeling a little blue. There was no particular reason in the world, other than my hormones must have been getting the best of me. I picked up the phone and dialed his cell, needing a little "pick me up." I glanced at the clock and realized it was the noon hour, one of his busiest times at work. I thought our conversation would be brief and maybe not what I needed.
Oh, how wrong I was. My dad answered the phone in the most joyful voice and said, "Kristi! My pride and joy! How is my favorite daughter today (I am his only daughter)? How are my beautiful grand kids? Tell me all about em'!" He acted like we hadn't spoken in weeks, like the call was so out of the blue, and was the highlight of his day, when in reality it had probably only been a day or two since we had spoken last. Tears streamed my face, but I gathered my composure. I didn't want him to know I was feeling sad, because somehow it didn't matter. All was right in the world, thanks to him.
I could go on and on telling story after story about how amazing my dad is, at every stage in my life, he has been terrific. Oh, and I know I have a million more, way better pics. than these I have posted, but for some reason, they're hiding deep in picture files. I promised the kids we'de do a Lemonade stand today. They're patiently waiting for me to make the sour stuff, so I'll end here.
Read, The Middle Place. I promise you'll like it. You'll see that Kelly Corrigan was proud to be and always saw herself as her father's daughter. I feel the same way and will forever remain.....
Stan Hales' little girl.
Unfortunately, life deals us some bad cards. It's inevitable! I have had my share, believe me. But, I can't help but to feel so blessed and grateful that....
