Life really does just go on. That’s what makes this journey we call life so interesting. We go through things unimaginable, but time just goes on. Good things, bad things, nothings, happen. What we choose to do with it is up to us. Hopefully, my choices made my dad proud…..

Well Dad, today’s your birthday, the third one without you. Don’t you worry; me, Megan, and Mom keep it high up in importance like you always did.

Just like last year, this morning started off with making me and you toast and coffee. Yes, I made me hot coffee too (gross). Like you did every morning, I unloaded and loaded the dishes and picked up the kitchen. It was the PERFECT fall day today. You’d be so happy. My tree in the backyard looks amazing.

Next to do on the list for your birthday. I went to go buy tickets to see the Excorcist, but I’d be the only one in there. I have to admit I screamed during the preview, so I figured I may be safer at home. So I decided to be a baby and skip it. But, I made sure to get some McDonald’s for lunch because you and I know it’s our guilty pleasure. I got comfy with the fire going and watched another movie, in the comfort of my own home, with my dogs protecting me. I watched “The Nun”, so it’s still a scary movie, but not alone in a dark theater. Lol

After that, it was time to set up what you lovingly would call the “ugly tree.” This is the tree with all our family ornaments that don’t match. I jammed out to the Christmas music and then relaxed and watched yet another movie, “The Holiday,” which I have the last three years, so it’s officially a tradition.

Since I’ve seen it so many times, I prepped your famous Broccoli Potato Soup. I chopped the cheese, broccoli, and potatoes. Put them in the fridge and got back to my movie.

Next on the to-do, David and I bundled up and took the doggies for a walk. Wilson is slowing down now so he can’t go as far, but he did his best!

It was time to prepare your soup! Do you know the last time you made it was when you and Mom came over after Dave’s surgery? I still remember you making it at our house in Wilmington. You and Mom stocked our fridge! While it’s not like yours, it was great!

While eating our soup, you guessed it… another movie! But again, it’s tradition. “The Greatest Showman”. You begged and begged me to watch it with you and I’d always say no. However it gives me so much peace I finally stopped being hard headed and watched with you while you were still on Earth. But now, I love it.

I like to think these birthdays I’m celebrating after you passed are something you’d love. The last birthday we celebrated with you was not the best. We all tried to make it as happy and fun as possible. We had so many friends and family send us videos wishing you well and happy birthday. I know you watched some of it, but you were so tired. I got you a bunch of little gifts, including some warm socks, a Christmas blanket, and a stuffed dog you held onto. Mom held the phone so I could see you open it, and I think you were really truly happy with it. I remember your smile. Little did we know 8 days later, you’d be gone.

But you are here, at least that’s how I think. You were right next to me celebrating your birthday. I was sitting at a light going home after grabbing McDonald’s, feeling guilty and sad, and you said STOP. How do I know? I looked at the time on my phone, 11:11, your number.

Everything I do, I think of you, and I hope you would be proud. I love you, Dad. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!