26 February, 2010

A Toast

This past year I've been asked the same question a few times: if you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be? Without hesitation, my answer is my father-in-law. I would do anything to have him meet The Monster and Smilosaurus and enjoy a raucous dinner where he would surely win the nightly roaring contest.

On this day, six years ago, he passed away. We, his family, miss him everyday. And this morning, I will raise a cup of tea to him. He made anyone feel at home, even if you spilled red wine on his pastel couch and carpet within ten minutes of meeting him. He even had the dad gene that allows a man to have a pre-dinner nap in the midst of kitchen chaos and grandkids climbing on him. He laughed every day and made the rest of us laugh too, even if it was at his taste in sneakers or his appreciation of a good deal. Doug was a man who treasured a good meal and cherished good company. He valued his friends and held his family close.

To Doug.

9 comments:

Vivian said...

Thanks for the reminder that in the midst of our often too busy days, it's good to take a moment to quietly remember and salute those near and dear who have gone on. They live again as we celebrate their "having been" with those simple gestures.

Charmian @Christie's Corner said...

So touching. I understand the ache of a loss like this.

Given the same magic powers, I'd have my grandmother to dinner and she's been gone (I can barely bring myself to write the word "dead") for more than 30 years.

I like to believe that as long as we remember our loved ones they live along side us in spirit.

Nancy said...

Hi Cheryl...Thank-you for remembering. I spent a lot of time over at Susan and Doug's home and remember Doug's kindness. He was a wonderful husband and father. He would have just loved your kids. It is hard to believe it has already been 6 years.

My best to you, Morgan, Kirsten, Bradley and Susan.
Hugs, Nancy

Jennifer and Amy said...

To Doug ... and I think we know that while you were having dinner with Doug, I'd be having dinner with my Dad. I think they would have liked each other ... easy going, great men!

Hugs to you all!
Amy
xo

Julie said...

Aw. To Doug. I'm raising my tea to him now, too.

Dana McCauley said...

Nice post. I hope I'm fortunate enough to touch people and be remembered as fondly as your father-in-law is remembered. I'm inspired!

Unknown said...

What a beautiful tribute. We lost my father-in-law suddenly just one month after my hubby and I got married. It is so sad to not have him here to meet his grandson's and to be a part of our lives anymore.

erinPre said...

Salut!

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