Dear Dad,

Dear Dad,

It is August 7th. A date that I used to never even notice. Now, it seems to be one I can’t forget. It comes once a year - as a reminder that you are no longer there for me to call each day. Not that I need a reminder.

I know you are with me each day as I navigate life - but it isn’t the same as watching you love Jackson and the other Grandkids - or listening to you and Mom tell me what was on Nancy Grace that night. So many things are not the same. In fact, its been a while since I’ve filled you in on what you missed.

Justin and I have finally settled into our home in Fishers. You would be happy to know that we planted roots near family - you always encouraged us to do so. Jackson loves “The Big House” and has made friends with the neighbors. Justin and I look forward to watching all the little ones grow up together and making memories with the other families. Just as you and Mom did all those years ago.

Justin is just as obsessed with the yard and landscaping as he always has been. There are times I go to get on him about spending too much time on his “show mow”, but stop when I hear you tell me, “leave that boy alone...” You always took his side - and Justin loved it!

Jackson is as rotten as ever - you would love it! I often wonder how he would probably be even more rotten if you were here to teach him all the rotten stuff “Papaw Mike” was known for (like Cave Man Named Dave). Jackson can’t pass up an Oreo - you would love it!...But you would be so confused as to why he turns his nose up to Ice Cream - Its almost Un-American.

Jackson loves his cousins and asks to see them if our schedule hasn’t allowed us to - I know you would be proud that he cherishes family. He thinks his Aunts and Uncle can’t do wrong and he boy does love his Mamaw Charsh!

A few months ago, our entire family - along with the Bixler’s loaded up and headed to Walt Disney World. Jackson lit up the minute we got off the plane. I know that Mom and I both had something tugging at our heart the whole week. We were missing you. You lived for trips to Disney World with your Grandkids - and here we were all together for Jackson’s first trip and you weren’t there. Justin kept reminding me that you were there - in spirit. I know he’s right and just tried to stay in the moment with Jackson. You should have seen him taking it all in...telling Mickey Mouse “I have to go home today Mickey, but I’ll be back to see you soon” on our last day. Justin and I both teared up on that one. I’m sure you would have too!

Jackson is getting so smart. Today, he asked me to sit at the table with him and help him write his name. I felt like he was 17 studying for the SATs. :) You would also love to see how OBSESSED Jackson is with sports. He played Tball and Soccer this summer - and I know you would have loved to come each game and cheer him on (or laugh at how Jackson always got a ‘stomach ache’ during warm ups - but was fine for batting practice). I have a feeling Jackson will be just like his Daddy - and will love any and every sport he can play. I am fairly certain I have a lot of “bleacher time” in my future. Wish you could be there sitting right next to me.

I’ve changed jobs - again. I know, I know, I know...but I love my job this time and love the challenge it brings each day. I know you would be proud. I just wish you were here for me to share this new challenge with and hear your encouraging words when the challenge is a bit tougher than I like.

I could go on and on - but please know that life is good. I don’t take it for granted. Justin and I love to share our life with family and friends. I’m thankful that you taught me life isn’t “great” unless you share it with those you love. I can only hope that Jackson learns that from us.

Please know that you are loved and talked about often - the only way I know to “keep you with me”.

All my love,

Kristen