Kim Reding

Dear Dad,

Hi. It’s me again. Man this last year went by fast. Life is still different without you. October 17th. One whole year. I think we’re all still learning how to adjust to a world without you in it. A lot of people have gone down this road, I guess it’s our turn now.

Mom is doing okay. But I think about how much her life has changed. The homemaker who made everything from scratch, always finding some new recipe or fun dish to spoil you with, doesn’t really have anyone to do that for anymore. Well, except Cleo. ❤️ And thank goodness for Cleo. I think she’s keeping Mom going in more ways than she knows.

Mom misses her best friend. And Pam and I? We still miss our dad.

I still find myself wanting to call you. To send you a song I know you’d love, talk about a book you’re reading, or tell you something funny that happened. Sometimes it’s when I’m sad, and sometimes it’s when I’m excited about something. And then I remember I can’t just pick up the phone. So instead, I find myself talking out loud to you, hoping somehow my words make their way to heaven.

The kids are doing so well, Dad. You’d be so proud of them. They miss you, too. They miss your conversations, your encouragement, and the way you gave them your undivided attention. They are such beautiful humans with the most loving souls. And you know what? The older I get, the more I realize what a gift that was.

Words of encouragement and undivided attention. It’s so simple, yet somehow we make it so complicated. But you didn’t. You made people feel like what they had to say mattered. Like they mattered. What a beautiful lesson you left us. Thank you for that.

My heart aches, Dad. Not just today. A lot of days. Mark and I talk about you often. About things you would have loved, places you would have enjoyed, and moments we wish you were still here to share with us. You’re still very much a part of our conversations and our lives.

I love you, Dad. I miss you more than I can put into words. Say hello to all our loved ones in heaven. And while you’re up there, put in a good word with Jesus for the rest of us. 🥰

Rest easy, Dad. All good here. ❤️