It's hard to believe it's already been one year since Dad passed...  It's been a rollercoaster of a year - good days and bad...  Many firsts...  Our first Fathers Day, Kali's 2nd birthday, Cole's 4th birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Dad's birthday, Steve & Cindy's (would be 36th) anniversary and more...

Mom wondered how she would survive...  But she did and has learned the many aspects of not having a "handyman" at home through tears and lots of laughs.  Thankfully Troy and "Uncle" Donnie have helped with much of the fixings around the home - however there were many moments of head scratching wondering how Dad did some clever ways of "rigging" things (if you know Dad - you know exactly what we mean.)

We are still so appreciative of the Long Lake Honorary Person of the Year Award for Dad.  It was such an honor and wonderful evening with friends and family - we only wish Dad would of been there to accept it.  Thanks to everyone that participated in Dad's auction of his tools and other personal items...  We are blessed to have such great friends that purchased most of them...  Last week we ended up getting rid of Dad's bike - it was a tough day for all of us...  Luckily Troy was able to give Cole a ride a few days before - Cole gave the thumbs up and was smiling from ear to ear...  Something Dad wanted to do more than anything - "take his buddy for a ride."

Although we thought it was going to be a really tough day - and it was...  We spent the day together with a stop at the Arboretum to enjoy the flowers and beautiful scenery followed by an afternoon cruising on Lake Minnetonka - one of Dad's favorite things to do...  Of course we did make a stop at Fletchers and toasted some Long Island Teas in honor of Dad - again another one of Dad's favorites...  The day ended with the family eating burgers and malts at the Peppermint Twist (one of Dad's favorite places to stop on the bike.)

Thanks to everyone for your continued blessings and prayers.  Your friendships are more than we could ever ask for.  The tough days were brighter because of all of you...

Lastly - remember to live each day to the fullest.  Take time to tell your loved ones you love them, give them hugs and kisses and never go to bed mad - you just never know what tomorrow brings...