A Tribute to My Dad

“Daddy, take me fishing.”

You’d wake me up at 4

And we’d move round so quietly

And then sneak out the door.

And with the moon to guide us

We’d find the perfect spot.

It didn’t really matter

If we caught a fish or not.

“Daddy, can I play some bridge?”

I’d beg with sheer delight.

And you would guide my little hand

Until I got it right.

When I was small, to reach the cards,

I’d sit upon your lap.

Yet soon you’d say, “You’re on your own,”

Ad you’d go take a nap.

I remember all the little things

That made you so unique-

Your drive, your laugh, the way you’d herd

The cattle across the creek.

And sitting on the tractor rim

While you would mow all day-

Those memories are still so strong

They’ll never go away.

And even though we’re far apart

I always strive to be

The daughter that you’d hoped to have,

And, yet, uniquely me.

I’m proud of who I came from;

You helped to carve the way.

Please know I’ll always love you

Each and every day.