So my old man celebrated his birthday yesterday, and boy, was it un-special. He opened a modest gift from my mom, a cheesey package from my sister, and a couple of cards from family. My sister and I put our money together to treat him and my mom to a joint gift that they won't be able to cash-in until March. And the only thing extraordinary about last night's dinner menu was that the pasta sauce was homemade, not store-bought.
Yeah, a darn un-special celebration indeed (we didn't even serve a dessert, per his request).
But you know what, that's my dad's style. No frills. No fuss. And especially nothing showy. He is one of the most simple and humble guys I know.
And because of that, my kids absolutely adore him. Because when they're around, it's all about them. My dad, who oversees an entire campus, puts everything aside - work, job, chores, projects, self - when his grandchildren are involved. It melts my heart.
I am so, so thankful for my dad (better known as Opa). I am so glad that frills, fuss, and showiness ain't his thing. And I'm so grateful to celebrate another year knowing him as Opa, the title that means the most to him. And I know that not because he said it, but because he shows it.
Monday, January 4, 2010
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He's the BEST! Love you DAD!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Opa-Dad! That's awesome!
ReplyDeleteMy dad is like that too. No frills, no fuss, such a giver/sacrificer, especially for his family. So thankful that he and Mom came yesterday to Bug Land and took care of us.
Thanks for making such beautiful daughters, Mr. Opa!
Marla - Does this mean that you are well enough to be checking blogs, etc.? Oh, I hope so!!!
ReplyDeleteI honestly don't know what my Dad would do if we had to take Henry to the ER. I know he'd rush home from Wooster (where he works), but he'd probably have a few choice words with God first. My dad doesn't handle "watching his kids suffer" very well. When my sister was a baby and needed a spinal tap, he punched the hospital wall.
I've never met him in person but I feel like I know the man. He is indeed very special to you all and I hope that he had a wonderful day! Zum Geburtstag viel gluck, Herr Nameth!
ReplyDeleteAlyssa, I love that you sent him a German greeting. You speak directly to his heart and soul.
ReplyDeleteMiss you, miss you, miss you.
What a heart warming post. family means so much
ReplyDeleteThat is one of the sweetest posts I've ever read. I don't even know you and my eyes have welled up with tears. You are blessed! And your kids are cute too! What a deal!
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