This is my dad and his, “Yes-I’m-attentively-listening-to-you-and-yes-I really-like-our-conversation” face. He has a passion for people, for conversation and for stories. He’s one of the greats. This photo was taken a few years back in October on our trip to Spain. It was the first night he got there. After several missed flights to Valencia, he ended up in Barcelona, rented a BMW and somehow found his way to this little town on the coast of Spain where we were staying.
It was a great night. Everyone was so happy he got there okay. There was a big group of us, maybe close to 15? All family friends. We ate at this restaurant where we were pretty much the only people in the place. We ate a long meal full of laughter, food, wine and love.
I love this photo of my dad because it captures him so well. His old kind eyes and his weathered face in combination with a genuine happiness to live in the moment.
In some ways I grew up too fast. I left for the first half of my senior year when I was 17 to live abroad in Spain. Looking back I was just a baby. I can’t imagine how hard it was for my parents. Since then I have had a pretty strong sense of independence. I stopped needing my parents for the most part. I thought I knew better than them in most situations.
This week, I learned that it turns out I was wrong. While I may not “need” my dad, it sure helps that even thousands of miles away he’s not afraid to step up and be an incredible support system. I also realized that while he may not be perfect, he sure does have a lot of wisdom and good advice to give when I need it the most. Thanks, Dad. I love you. 
xo
