Dear Dad

I slept pretty well last night. Something I didnt expect. I prayed to God for you to visit me in my dreams. You didn't. I imagine you are catching up with Mom and getting some good skiing in. It has been a long time since you were able to ski, or walk for that matter. I am happy to know that you and Mom are both together now and you are both watching over me. I couldnt think of better angels to have by my side.

I thought that I had gotten myself prepared for your passing. I knew as soon as you had your surgery on November 18th that it was close to the end. So I tried to brace myself and get myself ready to play the strong role for Sally and those others that would need a strong person to comfort them. Its not working out as I had tried to plan. I thought with all the challenges I have faced in my life that this would be a walk in the park. Boy was I mistaken. I called Sally to check on you and see how you were doing. She told me you had died three minutes prior to that. I was struck silent, I had no words, and found it hard to breath. I guess I wasnt as prepared as much as I had hoped to be.

I am thankful that I got to be there with you when you had your few good days. Most of the time you knew exactly who I was. "Your the one and only Tamara", "I'm sorry I tore your play house down, that wasnt very nice of me.", and you showered me with many kisses. I was able to try and give you some comfort when you were having leg cramps and I tried my hardest to clean your mouth, but I have a weak stomach so had to pass that job onto Sally.  She loved you so much Dad and I am happy that you had so much happiness with her. She loved you so much.

You gave me such a wonderful life full of some amazing adventures. Without you I dont think I would have ever learned to ski and I was taught by the best. You passed on your love for the outdoors and like you I find the most peace when staring at the trees. I keep thinking of the time you and I went on a fishing camping trip to Redsmeadows and while sleeping we kept hearing this banging noise. You had your head stuck out the tent and not even 5 feet from your head was a bear banging away on your camping table. You kept trying to get me to look but I was convinced that my sleeping bag was safer then where your head was. I loved that trip and getting to spend that one on one time with you.

I was always your little princess and you were always my Daddy in shining armor. I can't imagine a little girl having a better Dad then I. I know we had some really tough times after Mom died and I am happy that we both forgave eachother for the mistakes we both made. Those bad memories are nothing to me now but my amazing memories I will always cherish and pass on to your grandkids. I have already told them the story of the little indian boy named Falling Rock. Andrew even bought me a road sign that says "Watch for falling rock." I wont ever stop looking for him.

Thank you so much for picking me when I was three. I can't imagine having been more loved by anyone else. I will miss you so much Dad. I wish that I could hug you now and kiss your cheek. Having you was one of the best things in my life and I will cherish every moment that I got to see you smile. Even though you are no longer here I will make sure my kids know what amazing father, husband, friend, and adventurer you were.

I love you Dad and say HI! to Mom for me.

Your Daughter,
Tami (Tamara)