QUICK, MAKE A WISH...

Today's the day!  A milestone for my dad - my hero - my inspiration.  80 years YOUNG (how can that be?), and still running circles around most of us, me included these days.  Whether it's making me crazy because I've called and he's up on the roof with the air conditioner, or out mowing the "North 40" (his incredible park-rivaling lawn), he amazes me every single day of my life.

Arvid Carl Anderson - born May 19, 1934.  Son of a Swedish immigrant and an Irish American lass (my grandparents, Carl and Kate)...little brother to Robert.

 

Married to Barbara Jean Rhyno in the late 50's, the dapper guy fathered three kids of his own (tho I'm the one pictured here, because it's my blog!) 

Seven grandchildren - two of whom I can vouch for, that love him madly.  Always the fun guy to be around. Four great-grandchildren, that we know of...

30+ years at the defense contractor, Martin Marietta, as a design engineer (yes, a Moon Man); sportsman (that's his hunting buddy, "Sonny" - my brother, Arvid); outdoorsman; singer; dancer; poet; comedian; avid reader (I have never known him to not be learning about something new); and teacher.  He IS a walking encyclopedia!

Contemplating the scenery he loves so much, and knows so well.  We like to say "he knows some shit about some stuff" - my go-to person for history questions, for sure, and anything else I can't find an answer to.  He still loves road trips, much like those we used to take when I was a kid (but with far less puke on his car seats from my motion sickness years).  For those who know me, they know I married someone who hates to travel, but is more than willing to afford me to spend summers travelling with my parents - usually through the beautiful SW, which my dad has always been enamoured with - the scenery and the peoples. 

He's an art lover; a collector; a connoisseur of fine cuisine (yes, Mexican food and Margaritas count).

Husband and best friend to my Mom - I can think of no more perfect match.  I've watched him sit patiently in MANY a Chico's store, and just let her have at it.

One of the most important lessons I've learned from him - ALWAYS keep a sense of humor (the photo on the bottom center has him holding little "cards" that they pass out for free on the Las Vegas Strip - you have to have been here and seen them to know why he is smiling).  He's a card, a cut-up, sharp as a tack, and can bring a smile to any one's face.

Just the two of us over the past few years - we even took in a rock concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater.

It's truly been a Carousel of Happiness being my father's daughter (figuratively AND literally - this was taken at the "Carousel of Happiness") .  Those who know me ALSO know just how much he means to me. Thank you for being my Dad, Dad - you ARE my hero!  You may never realize just HOW much I have loved you all these years.  Hope your day today is fabulous - I'll be home soon, and we're buying that new Cowboy Hat - no arguments!  Go dry your eyes (I need to, too), and have a wonderful day (watching Mom gamble )...I told you he was patient!  Love you more!!!

Happy Birthday, Big Guy - XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO