Sunday, February 2, 2014

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

Growing up, I was the only one of my friends whose parents were still married.  It was always weird when Sally couldn't hang out because she was spending the weekend at her dad's house in the next town.  I couldn't fathom my parents being separate.  I was lucky.  Damn, I am lucky. 

People joke about the Cleavers, saying these family situations are unrealistic.  Maybe I'm a little more optimistic than most.  I'm not saying that my family was perfect.  We had our arguments just like everyone else.  What I am saying, is that my parent's relationship is the reason I have faith in love.  

My dad worked his ass off when I was little, just to make sure my mom could stay home to raise me.  We didn't have much, but mom and dad never let me know that.  Dad came home from work every day at 12:10 for lunch, went back to work, and dinner was on the table waiting every night at 5:10 when he got home. He was always met with a kiss and a "Bob-a-Looch" greeting from mom. In addition to her household duties, mom played with me, held me, and made funny voices for each character while reading me "Horton Hatches the Egg".  As soon as dad showered (his blue collar job left him pretty greasy), it was play time for us.  He used to sing songs, but intentionally change the lyrics just to listen to me correct him.  He tolerated my invisible friend, and always made sure Cross-baugh (don't ask why my imaginary friend was named as such) had a seat at the table.  

As I got older, mom went back to work.  Mom and dad still managed to meet our 5:10 appointment at the dinner table - welcome home kiss included.  The weekends were spent on family time.  Mom and dad kept it simple.  We never took extravagant vacations.  We didn't need to.  We made the best memories at home.  They would play Nintendo games against each other, laughing the whole time.  Every time I heard them laugh, I would laugh.  That was all they - and I - needed.  

Years have passed.  Forty years, to be exact.  Forty years.  That blows most marriages out of the water.  Not much has changed.  Although both have since retired, dinner is still served at 5:10.  I still see them kiss each other good morning.  They still say, "I love you".  

While focusing on the simple things, mom and dad managed to survive the odds.  They continue to inspire me, and remind me that true love does exist.  Happy Anniversary, mom and dad.  I love you both to the moon and back.  Thank you for being my inspiration.  

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