OcalaMom.com

I have some fabulous relationships in my life, and I know how fortunate I am. My friends are loyal to the core and there when I need them. My family is terrific and both of my big brothers look out for me, especially the one who is always helping me with my computers, house, etc. My kids are great boys and I am very close to them both and they share their feelings with me well. I get very stressed with them at times, but when we're out somewhere and give each other the look or laugh out loud at inside jokes it's a great feeling. I have super co-workers who I enjoy working with and people in my profession - public relations - who I just love. But as Daddy's little girl, I can tell you no one takes his place. My dad has always been my hero. He worked hard along with my mom to put all three of us kids through college and he taught me some pretty strong lessons - be as good as your word, work hard and do your best, be loyal to your loved ones, be kind and compassionate to others in less fortunate situations. My dad was a teacher in my high school, and I remember him waiting until hours after an event ended for a kid's ride to finally come. And there were times he took kids home because no one was coming for them. Even now, 20+ years after he retired, people approach him and tell him how much he meant to them. He has always been my biggest supporter and during the big moments of my life he has been there. And the little ones, too. He believes in me when I'm not sure. He never meddles - he and mom never did - but is one mighty-loving granddaddy to my sons who adore him. He has stepped in as a strong role model for them and in recent months kept them many times for me so I could work or play. And he encourages me to play so my life can stay fun beyond being the mommy all the time. My dad and mom were married 55 years, and as the cancer she battled so bravely finally took over, he made sure she was home where she wanted to be and took care of her until the very end. When I divorced, he was there supporing me all the way. Even now as I write this, it's 12:11 a.m. and I know that like me, he's a night owl and will be up. I call him every night and check in. I think I'll call him now. He's the greatest and I love him. Who do you want to talk about? Is there someone in particular, or maybe you would like to ask for insight from others. (Sometimes the best answer is the one coming from someone who doesn't even know you!) Feel free to tell us about the relationship most on your mind right now. But for me, I've got to go - it's time to call my dad.

Awesome posting...good for you for putting yourself out there like this. I am grateful for your efforts! Thank you! I think we probably have a lot in common.

This was actually posted by Carole -- there's a bit of confusion w/ an e-mail address that we're working on clearing up.
But she gets credit for this lovely post.

That was pretty powerful. I feel the same way about my folks. I'd be lost without them literally. I remember thinking they'd hate me or disown me when they found out I was pregnant and the boyfriend had bailed on me. Instead I was met with love and understanding and the thought of them being grandparents again was just overwhelming for both my Mom and Dad.

I remember my Mom being there when I delivered Summer. She was amazing! At first I wasn't sure I wanted her in there for the delivery but I consented and boy was I glad I did. She was the best coach EVER! She still after all these years has that one special touch that I know she'll never lose. She has that one ability to calm my daughter just by whispering to her. There are days when I wish I could possess that ability but alas I know it'll never happen.

Dad, on the other hand, amazes me. My Dad comes off like he'll rip your head off if you mess with his family (and he probably would if you messed with his family..lol) but deep down inside he's just a big ole teddy bear.
Actually my Dad is a nice guy. I am amazed every time I see him with Summer. He's just so tender and loving just like I remember him being with me and my sister growing up.

So Summer and I are truly blessed to have them in our lives abd believe me I appreciate every day that I have with them.

~Deanna~
Mom to Summer Grace