Prince Charming

I must have been about 3 or 4 when Pink-Eye had me quarantined and wishing that Prince Charming would come to my rescue, and bring flowers too.  

And then there he was.  A twinkly smile just for me, and my first beautiful pink rose.  

Broad shoulders carried me on countless hikes through the Northern Range since I was barely able to walk, and many times after that as well.  Strong arms held me close when I was sick or hurt.  A deep voice sang the fighting songs of the Irish, which my brother and I still sing.  A grizzly Beardie playfully tickled us into squeals of laughter.  A patient teacher explained the awesome wonders of the world around us.  A former monk turned weekly mass into a magical place where bread and wine became the body and blood of Christ, and Jesus rose from the dead.  A strict but loving voice of authority guarded a reckless teenager.  The comic made his daughter laugh when he wore a green polo t-shirt to her wedding because he forgot his other shirt at home in the haste to pick up her friends at the airport. A calm steady hand guided a nervous bride down the aisle.  An emotional father kissed his daughter goodbye and let her know that he is proud of her.  A beaming granddad waves at an angel via webcam.

Happy Father's Day Daddy.  I miss you.