HappyBdayDaddy.

Today is the first day of a rough month to come. Today my father would be turning 58 years old. Unfortunately for the last 6 years we have been unable to celebrate together in person but able through my heart. There was a point in time where I thought that pushing everything aside will make it easier. I thought it would make me a stronger person. Although I seemed strong on the outside I was breaking on the inside. I wanted people to believe that I was growing as an adult because I had to, considering the circumstances I was in. I struggled, I failed. Just recently I realized if I am not at peace with the situation I will never be at peace in my own mind. I still am learning and trying my best to communicate and open up, yet it still seems more difficult than keeping it in. I will say it does feel better airing it out for everyone to read though. So I guess you can call this progress. In all of this I would ask for everyone to take a moment and realize what they have. Feel blessed for what you have. Take this opportunity to tell a loved one you love them for you know not how long they will be here. Every minute, every second, every moment counts.
To end this on a happy note I will describe a day in the life of Michele and Daddy. My dad loved to cook and go fishing.. these were his relaxing moments and he was at peace while doing so. My daddy was a joke-ster, at every family dinner, party, any occasion really, he would be the one everyone was focused on to bring the joy and smiles to their faces. Which inevitably lead to a smile on his face. We lived in a little town in Long Island and he would always take my brother, sister and I fishing. After the day's catch we would come home and he would start preparing the meal. Of course me being the brat I was never enjoyed his seafood dishes. He would get annoyed with me that I never wanted to try it so one day he decided it would be a hilarious joke to tell me that his freshly made fish cutlet (or whatever you call it) was a chicken cutlet (and I LOVED chicken cutlets) I was all excited and dug in. I took one bite , started chewing and he bust out in laughter. I then realized what I had just put in my mouth and spit it out. I was so angry but something came over me and I couldn't help but laugh with him. His laughter was contagious. To this day I will never forget his laugh or the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled. I miss you terribly but know one day we will be together again but for now I will keep you in my heart knowing you are always with me.

I LOVE YOU DADDY!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Love always,
Mickey