The smell of coffee grounds... The sound of fireworks... The sight of an old but beautiful hot rod car... The taste of cheese-garlic biscuits...

These things, for many, are insignificant, hold no value, & maybe even mundane. For myself, however, these seemingly random things are just enough to bring tear-stained memories flooding back.

I love you, Dad. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you, and words can't describe how badly I miss you. Life is not the same without your laughter, your stories, your words of guidance...

I'm happy you no longer hurt or struggle. I truly am. I can't begin to imagine that pain you suffered through for so long. But there's a part of me that still regrets so much & wishes you were still here. I wished I had asked more questions & spent more time with you.

I'm glad I was always your '#1 buddy' & partner in crime of the many shenanigans we got into. I'm proud you were always a great father, always supportive but never hesitant to give your two cents. You weren't perfect, but you always taught me that that was okay & I should never feel ashamed for being different.

Even when it comes to my hobbies, your lessons & words always echo in the back of my consciousness. You taught me to embrace & adore wildlife, even the misunderstood creatures like reptiles. When ever I struggled with my art, you always told me to try, try, until I get it right, and that practice makes perfect & to never give up.

Dad, while it always sadden me that you're gone, I cherished you & enjoyed every moment we indulged in together. Like every relationship between parent-&-child, there were some sour moments, but for me, the good moments will always outweigh the few & minor bad times. I will never forget all the laughter & smiles we shared and I'll try to think upon them more so than the bad times. I love you, Dad...

Catch ya on the flipside.