This morning was the 15th anniversary of the semi-truck crash that killed my dad. Fifteen years of working on issues to make our roads safer. Fifteen years of missing him every single day.
For whatever reason this year was rougher than usual. So after my physical therapy session I planned to take myself off for a walk in the woods. Unseasonably warm, at 52F (11.11C) this December afternoon, I packed extra water for Katie-girl who insisted on going along. “We can’t waste a day like today mama!”
Early afternoon sunlight felt warm on this December day.
Though it was a Monday there were plenty of people enjoying the sunshine. Everyone we met smiled at the cute sheltie who was showing off her good side by letting little kids pet her. We even ran into a woman who said she used to handle shelties at dog shows and that “someone did some good breeding” with Katie.
A perfect day to walk in the woods.
We moved at Katie’s speed which means we walked very slowly. There was so much to see and sniff. I was in no hurry either, thinking about Dad and Mom, and how much they would have enjoyed a walk in this woods on such a beautiful day, and that made me smile.
Do I get to choose which way we go mama?
About an hour into the walk my phone, which I had set to map our walk, intoned “Mile 1, split time – not moving.” I laughed out loud. We were so slow that the GPS in my phone didn’t think we had moved at all. Katie was insulted.
We’ll come back here soon.
All in all it was a lovely walk in a beautiful park. It’s new to us, we were introduced to it just this past fall by a friend. Katie says we owe her cookies or something else equally nice, as this is a wonderful place to walk. While we were there I bought a pass for 2020 as I’m sure we’ll be back!
Sometimes life throws you curves.
There’s nothing quite like spending time outside to shake the blues. I’ll always miss my parents, but it felt good taking them with me on today’s walk.
And I bet they enjoyed it just as much as we did.
Made it through another Dec 23rd.
Change Is Hard 
December 23, 2019 at 9:11 pm
I know your folks enjoyed your walk as much as you did. Hugs. I miss mine too. Holidays are difficult.
LikeLike
December 23, 2019 at 9:12 pm
I’m glad nature helped. 15 years is a long time, and you have honored him by teaching others how we can make our roads safer. Some Christmas days are blue and that’s okay. It looks like a very beautiful park.
LikeLike
December 23, 2019 at 10:05 pm
(((hugs))) as you remember
LikeLike
December 23, 2019 at 10:56 pm
So sorry about the tragic way of losing your dad – and the walk was a great way to refuel and recharge –
And today is my friend from high school birthday – I used to call
Her every dec 23rd but stopped in 1995 or 96 – but still think of her with a smile –
LikeLike
December 23, 2019 at 11:17 pm
Dawn,
You and Katie had a beautiful day to enjoy your reflective walk. I am glad that nature provided you some comfort.
Sending you a ***hug***
LikeLike
December 24, 2019 at 8:42 am
A lovely, meditative way to remember your Dad. Nature is the best medicine – and Katie, too.
LikeLike
December 24, 2019 at 10:51 am
Katie’s final comment about making it through another anniversary says it all. On Dec. 31, we’ll observe the 11th anniversary of my own dad’s death (due to cancer). We’re blessed this year to have sunshine and warm temps, just what he’d have approved of! Glad you and Katie were able to get outside and enjoy a nice walk with the spirits of your parents.
LikeLike
December 24, 2019 at 10:53 am
This is a wonderful post. For those of us who enjoyed activities and holidays with our families, this season can be a challenge. I hope that you and your well-bred sheltie and your spouse and everyone have a warm, fond Christmas week.
LikeLike