My dad was the apple of my eye (I was and remained his little girl) and there wasn't a time in my life where I doubted the love of my pop. I remember him picking me up to dance with me to the music on his stereo. I remember ......
He was the All American citizen and he retired from the US NAVY in 1969 after serving 22 years. He was an avid golfer who had three hole in ones in his lifetime. He was the family man and the handyman around the house. Did I tell you that he tried real estate school for two weeks? He said..nope, not for me.... totally different language. He was proud of me, though.
My dad died of lung cancer on February 25, 2004. Five years of missing my dad.
The last thing he told me was, "Sal, no matter what..your life has to go on".
My husband and I quit smoking on January 13, 2007.
Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman is a Realtor-Associate® and Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) with Century 21 Liberty Homes in Mililani, Hawaii. With a sharp understanding that a listening ear is the key to a client's needs she serves the island of Oahu (Honolulu County) and all Hawaii Military Relocations, Hawaii Retirees, Hawaii Job Transfers and Hawaii Residents, Home Buyers and Sellers.
© 2007-2012 Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman's Hawaii Real Estate and Relocation Blog.
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Sally- I am so happy that you quit smoking:) I love you too much!
Sally, what a beautiful tribute to your dad, he was right, life has to go on. My husband and I also quit smoking after my mom died of cancer. Not a day goes by that I don't think about her. She died in 2001. In the back of our minds we know that our parents are supposed to die before we do, but there is nothing to prepare us for the loss of a parent. So, Sal, LIVE that life of yours! I am sure your dad is plenty proud of you. Thank you for sharing something so intensely personal and painful. My thoughts are with you and your family. Celebrate dad's life today!
Thanks Katerina.
Andrea: Me either. It sure gets emotional around the 'anniversary' time. I celebrate for everything he stood for. Why is it still sad?
Your post was very personal to me. Lost my dad to lung cancer on 10/17/08. Still pretty raw.
Let's all work together and avoid future losses ---- http://www.standup2cancer.org
Thanks Steve...will check that out!
And I think it remains raw for quite a long time....I cried today....for tomorrow.
Sally, it will be 15 years March 26 since my dad died of lung cancer. Oddly enough it is also my birthday. It took me another 7 years before I quit my 4 pack a day habbit. I traded it in for Nicorette Gum. I've been using since the day I quit.
Woo Hoo, The tributes we do for those we loved and lost are somewhat cathartic and at the same time it keeps them right here in our hearts and minds where they need to remain. It is natural to feel sad that he can't be where you are but know he is always in your heart and mind and take joy in that you are always in his. And remember you can visit as often as you like in your dreams. Now, smile through those tears, you will always be his little girl.
Hi Sally—This is a fantastic tribute to your dad. I know he is very proud of you. I finally stopped smoking after Bruce died. I lost both of my parents many years ago, but I still miss them every day. They are always with us in our hearts and minds.
Sally, love your tribute to your father - and good for you for not smoking!
Sally, beautifully done. I'm sure your dad is as proud of you as you are of him.
Hi Sally,
You can sure see the family resemblance in your Dad's photos. Very nice and congrats on kicking the habit.
Oh Sally that was very nice. I am happy that you are here for us now. Your dad had it right.
I quit smoking 21 years ago before my dad who I lost to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in October 1993. Celebrate his life and enjoy what we have here on earth to the fullest.
Cancer sucks!!!!
Wonderful tribute to your Dad Sally. I'd sat your Dad's last words to you are great ones to go by.
Beautiful. My father has always been my hero, and always will be.
Sally I have read the blogs in the past that you have written about your Dad, and I know that he was a special person in your life. Keep those happy memories of him close to you always.
Thank you all for dropping by....I guess it was just a time to keep the spirit of dad alive. My dad smoked three packs a day and even when he tried to quit he snuck around ...the nicotine addiction is powerful...I know...I was there for 30+ years.
One day at a time :)
Hello Sally. Wonderful tribute to your father. I know you miss him bad and thanks for the reminders and yours and Gary's example to quit smoking.
Hi Sally - I am glad that you have some wonderful memories of your dad.
Sally,
On January 13, 2007 you gave yourself a gift and paid a tribute to your Dad in the best way possible!
My Dad also died from lung cancer. Where I grew up that was considered natural causes. I am glad my wife and I do not smoke. I hope my children never start.