My most lasting memories of Dad and me go all the way back to the time he was working as the night janitor/watchman at the 'new' Falmouth High School. After working his regular job as a mail carrier in the city, he'd come home, catch a few hours of shut eye and after supper it was off to this second job. About once a week during the summer, he'd let me tag along. While he was working and making his rounds, I'd spend time on the new gym floor shooting baskets and pretending to make that last second game winner, or exploring some of the well lit hallways and clasrooms. About 11 PM, we'd sit down for a meal of balogna sandwiches and listen to the latest feats of some kid nicknamed the "Say Hey Kid"(Willie Mays) out on the West Coast on Dad's scratchy Motorola, a radio that eventually followed me to college. After a little of that, it was time for bed. I curled up in my sleeping bag in the Library till about 4 AM and all that was left was the fast car ride home for a drowsy young lad. Back then, it was just summer nights with Dad. Now these times hold so much more importance. They were special. Just me and Dad and alone time. I wish I could travel back with this guy, for just one night...
Happy Fathers' Day DMN!
What a wonderful story BM. I never have never seen this picture of daddy. Happy Father's Day to all!
ReplyDeleteGreat memories and a lovely tribute, Birdman.
ReplyDeleteOh boy! Have a good Father's day.
ReplyDeleteGreat and touching reportage... I think of my dad as a hero too for all the hard work he did to take care of the family!
ReplyDeleteGod bless you!
Cezar
Great memories. It seems like it is the everyday stuff that sticks, not the big trips to Disneyland that we remember the most.
ReplyDeleteVery nice story indeed! Thanks for sharing it. Great picture, too. Every time your brother heads out to talk to a neighbor, I can hear all of you say, "He's just like our dad". Happy Father's Day, Birdman!
DeleteNever seen this picture of dad.....Thanks
ReplyDeleteA lovely tribute, B. There is tenderness and love in your story...on both parts, you and your father.
ReplyDeletewhat great memories. very touching. he was a hard working father.
ReplyDelete"Memories are made of this" - only more so.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a movie star!! Happy Father's Day D..........and you too, my Birdman. Love ya!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful Father's Day tribute Birdman!
ReplyDeleteI love that story Birdman!!
ReplyDeleteWe all had our turn at Falmouth with Dad. My special memory was writing on the "green boards" the new black boards were green then. who'd a thought he'd raise two teachers who would do their share of writing on those dinosaurs....black boards became green then white... Who'd a thunk it?????
ReplyDeleteThanks for memories, bro.
Florida Checks IN!
Hee... the Donald reminds me of D. Trump. Your dad looks like a friendly fellow. I really like his smile! :)
ReplyDeleteA wonderful memory of time spent with your dad. Really a great story.
ReplyDeleteNow, wouldn't your dad be amazed that people are appreciating him all these years later from across the country. I love his smile.
ReplyDeleteThat is an amazing portrait and post.
ReplyDeleteSuch a dad! Such a boy! Beautiful post. Have you ever read FISHING IN THE AIR? It's a pic book but I think you'd identify - about all those silent ways a parent nurtures us . . .
ReplyDeleteSo nice. You are lucky to have such memories and to be able to articulate them so well.
ReplyDeleteYour Dad has the best smile Birdman, lovely tribute and such happy memories.
ReplyDelete