from 2016
I just spent an hour on the phone with my dad. This is kind of a big deal because a) he rarely answers the phone, and b) if he does, he usually throws it to my mom like a hot potato as fast as he can.  

He just turned 80, and I’m becoming keenly aware that any conversations with him are limited. Any visits I make “back home” are precious. Any time my kids spend with my parents is a huge gift.

Today, my dad talked. And he listened (which he isn’t always good at), and he reminded me who I am and what I’m capable of. He made sure I knew – as he’s done for almost 47 years – that I am loved.  

And today? Today, he never passed the phone to my mom.