My Friday Five is dedicated to the men who shaped my life, as I was growing up.
He was the Music Director at Highfield Theater for many years. He also was a summer police officer in our town. And when we went to local parks for cook-outs, Dad was the burger-meister! He has been gone a long time now, but I still think of him often and miss his wry sense of humor.
2. My Uncle George. He was the father who taught me everything growing up. How to swim, how to dive, how to bowl, how to care.
When I was about 7 years old I cut my toe badly at the beach and he carried me all the way home! He was not a loud man, but in his quiet loving way, I just knew that I was one of his special kids. In fact, when Hubby and I married, Uncle George walked me down the isle. I miss this sweet, loving, wonderful man!
3. My Uncle Bob. He was fun to be with. But, he required that I act like a mini adult too. That was fine.
I did a lot of things with him and his wife, Auntie Cynthia. I remember being on his boat, or when they took me to their home in Quincy and to museums. And I recall my Uncle once got a monkey. Cute, but it didn’t last for long.
4. My Papa Fred. Another quiet man, who was quite old when I lived with him and Grandma. But he showed me something important.
What real love between a man and woman was all about. I would watch Papa and Grandma sitting on their sofa watching Lawrence Welk. Papa would hold Grandma’s feet in his lap and stroke them gently. He simply adored Grandma, and had all of his life.
5. My Papa Sam, my Dad’s Dad. I didn’t know him as well, but I remember him taking me to the Prudential Building in the summer to listen to the Barbershop Quartets sing.
I remember sitting on his lap and listening to him sing along. He had such a beautiful voice.
These 5 men helped to shape the woman I grew up to be. Each special in their own way, and now, each greatly missed.
Happy Father’s Day! I remember you all with love and many memories that make me smile!
Lovely tribute to them all! Miss them so much! Love YOU, Mel