To the guy who took a 9am whining, crying, complaining call on this day 5 years ago – you stayed calm, laughed at me, and talked me through changing the end doo-hicky thing on an air compressor hose.  I’m really glad I saw the date that day and called you back to apologize and wish you happy birthday.

I can still hear your voice and laugh so clearly in my head that sometimes I can’t believe I won’t be able to pick up the phone and hear it again.

You would have been 65 today and officially retired. I’m sure that would have warranted some sarcastic post on Facebook about the government giving you your due to which I would have rolled my eyes.

I took Mia to Bushnell and we left a flag and balloon for you. I think you would be proud of how her and I have grown close. I hope you’re proud of how I’ve taken care of her. I hope you know I’ll never stop.

Happy Birthday, Daddy. I love you.