One of my earliest memories of my dad is from primary school. We were drawing pictures of our families and I drew my dad with no hair. My teacher asked why, and I replied, quite simply, “Because he just doesn’t have any hair!”
That was Dad.
He was tall and broad, with skin so fair it was almost white, something I’m fairly sure I’ve inherited!
When he came home from work, he’d wash, get changed and then spend time playing with my brother and I until tea was ready. We would get ourselves into a state of complete excitement and he always joined in.
Dad was one of the gentlest people I’ve ever known. He never harmed a creature, always rescuing creepy crawlies, baby birds or anything else that needed a helping hand.
We always had a dog, and although Dad was very strict about our pets being trained properly and looked after well, they were loved beyond measure. They may not have been allowed on the furniture, but they never doubted they belonged.
When I was little and he lifted me onto his shoulders, I felt as though I could touch the clouds! What a memory.
He was always making something, fixing something or tinkering in the garage. He serviced the cars, did the DIY, helped me move into my first home and quietly solved problems without ever making a fuss about it.
He loved music, cars, Radio 4 and, most of all, his family. In later years, he cared for my mum with the same kindness he showed throughout his life.
Even now, when I pick up one of his tools, a hammer or a screwdriver, I think of him. In those moments, I feel he’s still with me somehow, still looking after me.
My dad had the biggest heart. A strong pair of shoulders when I was little, a steady pair of hands throughout my life, and a kindness that reached people and animals alike.
I loved him very much.
Today, on Father’s Day, I’m remembering him with love, gratitude and a smile.
Happy Father’s Day, To All Dad’s ❤️