Friday, October 14, 2011

Flying

Today would have been my dad's 90th birthday.  A farm boy, he literally flew the coop to go to college and serve in the Army-Air Force during WWII.  He decided teaching would help bring peace in the world and never returned to farming.  He was a noble man.  That made me Mr. Stenson's kid growing up.  With one wing and half a brain, I tried to fly away right after high school too.  My parents kicked me right back in their nest until I finished college.  By then, I had two working wings.
            Now it's my children's turn to soar.  One will be getting married next summer.  Her and her husband-to-be have been together for ten years  and they are only 24 years old.  When I got married I was younger and didn't know my wife for ten months before my wedding day.  My other kid is moving 180 miles away in a month.  She has been breaking glass ceilings in the corporate world for a number of years.  As a dad, the realization that neither will probably ever live in my nest again is unsettling sad.  I have loved them here with me for so long, but they are ready to spread their wings and I must let them fly.
            I have been quiet here for the past ten days because I flew in another direction.  My favorite musician came to town and I went to see him perform twice last weekend.  I have been to countless shows and always have high expectations.  Have you ever gone to a movie after hearing rave reviews and it leaves you flat after you've seen it?  This musician has never failed to exceed my highest hopes no matter how pumped up I get about it.  Believe me, I was flying both Saturday and Sunday.  A week later, I am just now preparing to land.
            Happy birthday, Dad.

10 comments:

  1. I enjoyed your post. Might have to read more ;)

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  2. I'm so happy that your flight lasted so long. How cool to be able to soar on happiness.
    Both kids flying the coop around the same time. Ouch. Parenting is so very often bitter sweet. The pride and happiness for the children and how well they are doing for themselves in life and the heavy heart as they spread those wings and sail. You've built such a strong and comfy nest, I'm sure the birds will be back for lots and lots of visits, no matter how far their wings spread.

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  3. The birds will go off and bring more birds. Your flock will grow. Happy Birthday to Dad.

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  4. Are you kidding me? Oct. 14th is your Dad's birthday? It is my Mom's birthday, she would have been 81. Happy Birthday Mom. And Mr. Stenson. We both had good parents and I can tell that you are a very good dad. Look at your kids and tell me you aren't.

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  5. Uta, I am glad you paid a visit and I hope you'll hang around. Nacher, I know they'll come be back for visits. I am too irresistible! Elena, I think baby birds are a few years away still. They may plant me first.

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  6. Jan, I am a good dad if you look at them, just don't ask them!

    Happy belated 81st Mom.

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  7. I know Glen I'll be really feeling it when all my four leave the homestead..but reading you post I can't help but hear how proud you are of them and in the proudness is the silent words, you did a great job as they are venturing out on there own..it is our job to teach them well and continue the cycle. hard as it is which I've only heard...my time will come... thanks for sharing a bit of your father's story.

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  8. Hey irresistible! You are so lucky to have your kids "launched" but I know what a void it will leave---I kinda dread that day. But they will be back!! And you better NOT be planted before the baby chicks start arriving!! What a cool grandpa you will be!

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  9. Hi Glenn...Glad you stopped by our blog for a visit. Enjoyed looking at yours. Mary

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  10. Yes, Laura, I am a proud dad. Robin, don't you think I'd make good petunia fertilizer? Mary, I signed up for your blog, so you're stuck with me now. I am a big fan of creativity and beautiful spirits.

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