Our Safe Place

Growing up in a Sicilian household, family is at the center of our lives. God first, then family. We were taught to be loyal to each other and that no one else will love you like family. Both my parents have a special role in the family, but it’s my father that everyone looks to for so much. From gas prices, grocery prices, directions or the weather, he is constantly being bombarded by his kids and grandkids. We all call him for so much guidance in our day to day lives. I don't think we would function without him.

What I love most about my father is that he loves to create special experiences for all of us. Surprise getaways for my mother, family road trips every summer when we were little, “Superbowl” football games with his grandsons, filling his garden with our favorite foods and simply being there for every single one of us.

He is our safe place, our caretaker, our protector, our provider and the one who helps us when we are in need. He is always there! Always listens! Always helps and always picks up the pieces! He never yells. Never walks away or leaves us when we need him. He is the true definition of a selfless father; loyal, dependable and steadfast. It’s no wonder he is my son's favorite person. My son lights up when he sees “appa” and runs into his arms. It's a special smile he has just for my father and seeing them together touches my heart in such a profound way.

A few weeks ago, our safe place was shaken when we found out my father needed open heart surgery. It all happened very quickly and we were so fortunate to have caught it before something devastating happened. Seeing him in the hospital was a shock for all of us. He was never sick. He never even takes tylenol. He has been strong and healthy our entire lives, so it was hard to accept just how sick he really was. No one was more surprised than my father himself. He had a few symptoms but nothing prepared him for the news that he was a "ticking time bomb."

The grandkids took it hard and they struggled with seeing my father so vulnerable. But what a joy its been to watch them all step up and help take care of him. He is reaping all the love he sowed into their lives over the years. It's been 2 weeks since his surgery and he continues to amaze us with his strength and determination in his healing journey. He'll be back in his garden in no time!

My father's health journey is a reminder about our legacy and what we want to be remembered for. My father has blessed his family in ways he will never know and I am so thankful we all get many more years together.

I pray that all his grandsons will honor his legacy and grow into Godly, dependable men just like their grandfather. And to everyone reading this; love your family, make memories, plan surprises. Be loyal, loving and steadfast just like my Papa. Create the special experiences. You won’t regret it.

Happy 80th birthday Papa! Thank you for all the special memories you created for us. We look forward to making many more. We love you!