Feeling inspired by dad ... #TeachersWrite 2014

June 24th, 2014 marked the 4th year without my dad. I can honestly say that time heals the heart, but the heart never forgets. At the time that dad died, we were blessed to have known of his terminal lung cancer for more than a year. 
Yes, we were blessed. 
The thing about a terminal cancer diagnosis is that the reality of how short life is becomes self-evident. The blessing becomes that you have the opportunity to take advantage of every chance you have to spend time with your loved one. Gone are the excuses of being too busy. There's always tomorrow. Terminal cancer reminds you that there is not always the tomorrow. 
Dad lived longer than he was originally told - six months became a year and a half. When dad did deteriorate, he went quickly. I remember feeling a sense of relief when dad died, but it doesn't mean I don't miss him. Dad had suffered and it was difficult to watch - there was comfort knowing that he no longer the pain was no more. There are small things that happen that remind me of Dad. These days I miss him because of Maddie. I'm grateful that he lived long enough to meet her but it saddens me that he doesn't know the person that she is becoming. Maddie knows about her Papa but she does not know him. 
I remember crying to a friend the heartbreak I felt that Maddie would never know my dad, her Papa. My friend lovingly reminded me that Maddie will know her Papa...through me. 
My friend is absolutely correct. 
Teachers Write doesn't start until July; however, I'm using the four anniversary to start my summer writing. My intent is to publish a story for Maddie about her Papa in the form of a picture book. In order to figure out which story to publish, I'm spending my Teachers Write writing all about dad in the hopes that THE story will present itself. I'll be referencing Allen Say's books as my mentor texts. My mom and my Auntie Pearl will be my personal "search engines". I'm sure that tears will be shed; however, they will be tears of love and joy as I honor the memory of one of the most important men in my life.

Family picture taken June 2010, two weeks before dad died.

Teachers Write is an amazing opportunity for teachers and librarians to write and interact with authors. Launched by children's author, Kate Messner, and co-facilitated by author, Gae Polisner, and education blogger, Jen Vincent, Teachers Write is an amazing personal professional growth opportunity. Join in with one of the most supportive online communities you will find.