Happy Birthday to My Father

Happy Birthday Da.

It’s funny the things one remember when one thinks about a parent. Images come to mind in a mix of memory.

I found myself thinking about my science fair project that we created what a city on the moon might look like. We used the terrarium which was shaped liked a globe to show how one could create atmosphere and food on the moon.

I remember when you came to my second grade class and showed them all kinds of cool things that could be done with light. You brought a “portable” neon laser with you.

I remember when you gave a lecture on Lasers at Fernbank and you told the LASER/LOSER joke which stuck with me. Of course you taught me at a very young age what LASER stood for and I was proud I could tell people.

I remember you reading me The Wind in the Willows. I still hear your voices in my head when I read it. You introduced me to so many wonderful books over the years.

I remember when you gave me my graduation gift for surviving the Yale School of Drama. The Phantom of the Opera Hirschfeld lithograph still hangs over my desk. You were so proud of me and what I had done.

I remember going to the Muppet Movie with you. You came out whistling “rainbow connection”.

I remember going to the opening of the Center for Puppetry Arts and seeing the Art of the Muppets there with you. Thanks for sending me the photos that you took of the new wing and I look forward to seeing that with you as well.

I remember silly voices, bad puns, good advice, and lots of support and love.

You mean so much to me and I don’t think I say it enough but I love you so very much.

Happy Birthday to the best Dad a girl could have.

I am so very grateful that my father is my father.