Happy Birthday, Dad!

Sunday, 23 September, 2001

Dear Daddy,

Two days ago, it was your 64th birthday, the one that made you exactly double my age. I often joked about it with you, and I imagined that we would both be laughing at this funny event. Unfortunately, you left before it was time, and all I have left are my thoughts about what it could/would/should have been like to celebrate this event with you.

Dad, my memory of you is crystal clear and vivid, and nothing and no one will ever take that away from me. I will always cherish the good times we had together, and my children will know their granddad from their mother's side.

This month also marked the 10th anniversary of Mom's death, and I want you to know that I didn't forget. I remembered her and I knew she was with me.

As the dying mother tells her children in the movie "Stepmom", I will always miss you and Mom, but I will also take you with me wherever I go. You will be there for all my achievements, milestones, joys and sorrows, and as long as I live, you will never leave my side.

Dad, I want you to know that I will always love you, and I'm proud to be able to call you "Dad".

Your loving Raluca