Back in the Summer of "69"-My life Mentor

I can remember that summer like it was yesterday. I had just graduated from Elementary School. Back then we went all 6 grades in the same place.  So today's post is about  my "MENTOR". My father, the farmer, the gardener, and "Jack of all Trades". He lit the passion of 'Gardening' in my Soul. And as a small child I didn't take interest in his gardening because back then to me it was only to put food on the table.  Not  until I got older and got a Life of my own did I understand why he did what he did....

 My father always had a smile on his face. He was a fun person to be with and could talk about anything. I think he could have been one of of the great debaters :) Don't get me wrong he had his moments, but there were more good then bad for me.  He was always there for me. Homemade Ice Cream in the Summer (Peach), Cookouts, Snowmen in the Winter, he shopped for our clothes and did the grocery shopping as well,  and he fixed everything. My Mom loved roses but had a Black Thumb so he grew them for her so she could see them when  she came outside. I lost my Dad on August 12, 2003. And my world was crushed cause I thought I wouldn't have anybody like him  in my life ever again....but that wouldn't be true. Everyday I walk my gardens and play in the dirt and open my eyes, I'm with my Father. I think all the time  "What would my Father do".  And darn-it where are you now to show me how to grow these Vegetables in this horrible weather. I know he would say your not doing that right, or don't baby that stuff so much. Leave it alone, let it grow with a gentle voice. And trust in yourself......

And my Dad loved his grandchildren! In the spring and summer he would have them out there in his gardens weeding, and picking up little stuff. Here is a photo of my happy team: almost a happy team...and later on in life when he was done the team came to help him.

And here is  Joe. Very serious about everything but still fun. . Just like his father. But when it came to Pop-Pop that was his world too. My son has a Tattoo that honors his grandfather on his arm. It's beautiful! This was how he dealt with his loss.

So today is a 'Great Day" and I just wanted to share and Honor  my "Garden Mentor with you. And yes, I'm still learning about  life and garden stuff everyday without my Mentor, but now I know what the word means.: WISE ADVISOR and that was my "DAD". I love you Dad and thank you for all you gave me. Espesically the Passion to Grow and Garden.  Love Joyce