Before sunrise John makes his way to the small fishing boat. Excitement fills his soul as he loads the boat with lures and fishing poles. Heading to a spot close to low head dam where the fish normally bite, he reflects upon the day. It’s Father’s Day and all the family will be at the house to celebrate. An excellent day filled with joy for everyone.

The water in the swimming pool sparkles in the morning as my father carefully vacuums the trash from the bottom of the pool. After all the trash disappears the PH of the pool is carefully checked and chemicals are added as needed. This much loved ritual is repeated once a week. There is something special and relaxing about having a well balanced pool. A guide to life.

The grill is hot and the meat is sizzling with an appealing aroma. As he raises the lid smoke escapes into the air. It’s time to add the special barbecue sauce to the sausage and chicken. Perhaps one day the secret recipe will be revealed but for now it’s good to let them guess. The youngest grandchild sneaks behind him and begs for a tiny taste of the food. The child affectionately asks Papa John if it’s time to swim as she eats the morsel. He loves this nickname. It had been decided long ago that all the grandchildren would know this name.

The swimming pool is full and a game of water volley ball is being played. Physical issues prevent him from joining in the game. Occasionally the ball is thrown where he can catch it and throw it back into the water. Faking irritation at being splashed a huge smile always appeared on Papa John’s face. This ritual of being splashed with water is one of his delights of the day. There is so much love in this family.

During dessert presents are given for Father’s Day. There are some fishing lures, cards, and a small train as a gag gift. Papa John laughs as he opens the gag gift and relates the story of how he wanted to be train engineer. While being a civil engineer had its benefits somehow it never quite measured up to the dream of driving a train.

Night comes and the family goes their separate ways. John waves good bye with a smile. Lost in thought he recalls the years of laughter and tears. Till the day he died family was always his most important treasure. A legacy formed in a rich full life.

Happy Father’s Day Papa John! May you rest in peace. You are forever loved.

copyright 2023 Debbie Pierce