A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words...

It's always fun taking a "photo journey" down memory lane. I was going through old files today on my computer and found some pictures from vacations we took with my parents two and three years ago, pictures from birthday celebrations, Father's Day, Zack's baseball games, etc. Then I decided to go look for the box of our wedding photos. I was remembering the special part my Dad played in the ceremony. How important it was for me to have him there, to have him participate. You see, he walked me down the aisle the "first" time and conducted the ceremony and I'll never forget the sheepish grin and twinkle in his eye when he said "obey" in the vows. But this time, it was different. Zack walked me down the aisle and my Dad conducted part of the ceremony and our dear friend, Larry Lawrence, conducted the other half. I remember what a special day that was---I was marrying my best friend surrounded by our closest friends and family. Standing right there before us was my father---the cornerstone of our family, the man who could make me laugh 'till we both were crying, the man who could make me so angry we both would be shouting like the true Italians we are, the man who would give you the shirt off his back and every bit of money in his pocket. It was so important for me, for us, to have my father's blessings and he poured it out beyond measure. I knew he was so happy for me and Gary and that this was what he had dreamed for his daughter...true happiness and unconditional love. Those memories of him looking on as we said our vows will forever be etched in my mind.



When I look at these photos, it seems like a lifetime ago. He seemed so healthy and full of life, and yet it's only been 6 short years. There are so many things I wish... I wish I would have taken more time to spend with him when his mind was clear. I wish I hadn't rebelled so against his authority when I was younger. I wish he would have taken better care of himself, so this sickness wouldn't be robbing us and our family of precious time together. I wish he could remember the things that mean so much to us. I wish he were well enough to see his firstborn grandson conduct the marching band. I know his heart would swell with pride. I wish I had more pictures of him teaching Zack to swing the bat, throw the football, shoot pool. I wish he knew how much I love him...I wish I would have told him more.

He is currently at a Rehab Center in Jonesboro. Mom said he had a pretty good day today... at least it was better than yesterday when he fell trying to get out of the wheelchair. He is eating small portions, soft foods only and still does not have the strength to walk on his own. We don't know how long he will be in the Rehab Center, but pray that his therapy sessions will go well and he will be able to go home soon.

Finally, looking back at pictures from our wedding day, I had to post this one of our dear friend, Julie (Miss Jankinaround!). It is precious and makes me laugh every time I look at it. Those were such fun times...we miss you and love you!