When Allen asked me for our first date, I told him that I had my son for the weekend, which he responded with "bring him, too." Of course I did not, because it was just a first date, but after a while I decided it was time to introduce him to Daniel. The first time they met, Allen was a mess. "Should I get him a toy? Should I bring him something?" I was thrilled to know that he cared so much to be that nervous about meeting my son. We went to the rodeo that night and when Daniel got scared, he jumped to Allen. While we were walking, he held Allen's hand. That was the start to a beautiful relationship between the two of them.
Then along came little Connor. Allen was a little scared at first... I do not think that he had ever seen something so small in his life. But after a couple of weeks, he was an old pro at this dad thing. He changed diapers, got up in the middle of the night, held him when he was so sick and throwing up everywhere, paid attention to all of the small details, everything that makes a man a dad. My boys and I are so very lucky and thankful to have a man like Allen in our lives. I am so glad that my boys get to grow up with a dad that loves to wrestle, laugh, play Star Wars, beat video games, and watch cartoons. I hope that they cherish the memories that they make with Allen for the rest of their lives.
Now for my wonderful father. I have so many memories of my father from growing up. We laughed and sang A LOT. He coached Danny's baseball teams, my basketball team, he showed up to EVERY dance recital, every swim meet, he was always there and always made us smile. He is a big kid. My favorite memories are out on the water. He is a tremendous fisherman. He was always so happy and at peace when he was out on the water. I get to spend a few hours with him once a month, sometimes more often. This tragedy has hardened him. He still finds a way to smile, laugh, dance, pretend to rap, be my dad. He also manages to be the strong, positive one. I know somedays he is not doing okay, but he still lies to me so I do not worry about him. I cannot wait until the day that he gets to come home...... hopefully it will be soon. I am so very greatful that he is my dad. He is a kind, generous man. He does not deserve what he has gotten, but one day justice will prevail and he will be free. We pray every night "Free Papa."
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