Father's Day

Dear Grandpa,

Happy Father's Day.

I know it's been a while. A long time, actually. I'm sorry I've been so out of touch. There's no excuse for it, since I live here in town. I should have been to visit sooner.

It took me more than an hour to find you tonight. To be honest, I didn't really remember where you were. I mean, I remembered where the old house was. After all, I lived there for a year. But I couldn't remember how to find you anymore.

I drove back country roads for a long time. I turned down the wrong path at least a dozen times. I got lost. I had no idea where I was. I waved at locals on their tractors, and tried not to panic about the dirt roads. I tried to stay near the named county roads, so that my GPS would theoretically know how to get me home again. Thank goodness for GPS units; I never would have had the courage to look for you without one.

After 45 minutes, I gave up. I know that seems silly, after I'd already put in all that time. But I wasn't sure what to do. And it was already after sunset. And I knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that I was completely and utterly confused about how to find you. So I set the GPS to go home, and turned left when it told me to turn left...and there was the sign I'd been looking for.

Just another mile and a half, and I found you. And Grandma, too, of course. Right where we left you.

I think we had a nice chat. I told you about graduation, and about my plans for after school is over. I met Lucie, the little Jack Russell that keeps you company. I told you about Doug and Colette getting engaged.

I forgot how much I missed you, until I was there. I mean, there's always a little part of me that misses you. But being there tonight, I remembered how much I loved to talk with you.

I hope you know how much I love you, even when I don't visit. Because I do. Every day, not just Father's Day. Because you were wonderful in your own right, and because you gave me my father, who I'm thankful for every moment of every day. Thank you.

I miss you.

I'll try to visit again soon. And I'll bring flowers for Grandma.

Love,
Kimberly Ellen