“It is admirable for a man to take his son fishing, but there is a special place in heaven for the father who takes his daughter shopping.” – John Sinor
One of my favourite memories of my Abba was when we went on a “date” to SM Cubao when I was six years old. We went there so that he could buy me “big girl shoes”. They were basically shoes without straps and buckles. I think, in hindsight, that started my lifelong love affair with ballet flats — but that’s another story! It was a wonderful day. We got my shoes, my Abba taught me how to fit shoes (and to insist on it) so I could buy the right sized ones, we went to Shakey’s to get pizza, rootbeer and a milkshake (making sure to wash everything down with room temperature water so I wouldn’t get tonsilitis).
I am thankful I have memories of dates with my father. Even when I miss him terribly when I recall them, I am thankful for all the memories. It’s not that he bought me things (although I remember loving those shoes!), it was that we spent time together, that he made time for just us. I know both my siblings have solo date memories with our beloved Abbadabbadoo that they hold dear. The gift of time and presence is so precious. I am so very blessed that our Abba gave us that.
I know not everyone celebrates Father’s Day, for a multitude of reasons. But, if you are able to do so, if that is the kind of relationship you have with your father, hug him especially tight today. You don’t know how much time you have left with him to store up those memories.
Yellywelly 