Today I’m remembering my Dad and sharing the last dish that I served him, Baked Sriracha Ginger Cumin Chicken. It wasn’t planned that way. I didn’t make this dish for Dad but it ending up being his dinner one evening and he really appreciated it. It’s a comfort food dish—as I think all baked chicken dishes are—and having another comfort food dish as an option is always a good thing.

Me and Dad from (almost) the Beginning in Front of Our First Home (a Tiny Trailer)
My father passed away on Monday, January 19, 2015. I’ve written before about Dad and what a special man he was. Of course, almost everyone thinks that about their own Dad being special and if they do, they’re right, of course.
There’s that old saying that any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a “Dad.” Those of us who have a “Dad” have been very blessed and are very fortunate indeed.
My Dad was very special, not only to me, my mother, my sister, Son, my nephew, and niece, and the rest of the family. Son and my nephew and niece knew him as PaPa. He was also a beloved brother and friend. I’ve always known that Dad had many friends, but I had forgotten that Dad had friends of all ages.
That fact was clearly demonstrated at his funeral. So many streamed in on that weekday morning to share their love and respect for Dad. He mentored folks in hunting, fishing, trapping, carpentry and woodworking, and, well, basically everything he knew.
I’ll be honest and tell you that on one hand, it does not feel right blogging again and it does not feel right that life goes on, but yet it does feel right at the same time. This is the way the world works and Dad was always a big believer in going on, getting back to work, etc. He did not believe in languishing or feeling sorry for one’s self.
Don’t get me wrong. Dad was always supportive and sympathetic when we faced life’s challenges—he was always there for us—but he felt that part of healing was “going on.”
Dad had been having some health issues for some time, but still doing fairly well. However, after a really wonderful Christmas Eve spent together with all our family—for which we are so grateful—Dad’s health took a turn for the worse.
He’d been given a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease several years ago and more recently we’d been told that his Parkinson’s was now in the advanced stage. So we thought that was the cause of his most recent issues, which we mostly saw as confusion and dementia, with movement issues being secondary.
About 40% of those with advanced Parkinson’s not only have some dementia, but they also have hallucinations and delusions. It’s important to note that sometimes the very medications being administered for Parkinson’s can cause those hallucinations and delusions.
It was only when Dad was admitted to the hospital shortly before his passing that we were told that he most likely had Lewy Body Dementia instead of/or in addition to Parkinson’s and that he also had Capgras Syndrome (also called Capgras Delusion).
We were somewhat familiar with Lewy Body Dementia having researched it a few years ago suspecting at the time that Dad might have Lewy Body versus Parkinson’s. If you have never heard of Capgras Syndrome, we hadn’t either until the first doctor who saw Dad at the hospital stated that’s what we were dealing with, and both diagnoses explained so much that had been going on with Dad, whereas the Parkinson’s diagnosis had never been a “perfect fit” for his symptoms.
Lewy Body Dementia is the second most common type of progressive dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. It is estimated that about 5 million people are affected by Alzheimer’s. About 1.4 million have Lewy Body Dementia. That’s no small number, but most of the nurses who were part of Dad’s medical team were not familiar with Lewy Body Dementia, and none of them knew about Capgras Syndrome.
Capgras Syndrome is a neurological condition. “Capgras syndrome used to be considered very rare, but medical professionals are beginning to think that perhaps it isn’t so rare after all. The more doctors that know about it, the more people they find who have it.”
If you have a loved one with dementia (especially seemingly intermittent dementia and what seems to be unusual dementia) or just what you see as unusual behavior, please take a few minutes to read about these conditions. It might shed some light on what your loved one—and, thereby, you—are dealing with.
I want to respect my Dad’s privacy and our family’s privacy but, again, I am sharing this information briefly in the hopes that it will provide an answer for someone else reading who has a loved one experiencing the same type of unexplained symptoms.
Mom and Dad on Their 25th Anniversary
My Dad was 82 and had a full, wonderful life and we are so very grateful for that. As we said in his obituary, he married the love of his life, Mom, and they had almost 60 years together.
His time with her and with us was a gift, but is there ever really enough time with a loved one? I think not. We are all doing pretty well, but we are grieving for sure.
Dad Was a Tank Commander and Staff Sergeant in the Army in Germany During the Korean Conflict
Dad and Friends/Family Building Our First House
Dad, Me, and Mom at My College Graduation
Dad Tool Belt On and Working
Dad Loved Family Celebrations
Dad at Cape Charles on a Family Vacation (Mr. GFE Building a Sand Castle in Background)
I take comfort in knowing Dad is at peace and I know that I will still “see” Dad every day.
I will see him in my Duncan Phyfe dining room table that I bought back in my single days for $50. It was not usable as it was in pieces. Dad stripped it, reassembled it, refinished it, and made it look like it was worth a small fortune.
The mahogany top glistened like glass when he was done with it. So many family meals at our home (especially those for birthdays and holidays, including this last Thanksgiving with Dad and the rest of the family) have been enjoyed at that very table.
One of Many Merry Christmases (That’s Dad on the Far Right and Me Holding Son)
I will see Dad in the inexpensive ladder back chairs—now at my kitchen peninsula—that I bought to use with that Duncan Phyfe table. I bought the chairs unfinished and Dad sanded, stained, and finished them until they matched the finish of the table and looked like they were something special.
I will see Dad in that bi-level peninsula that separates our kitchen and our dining room. When Mr. GFE and I had our house built, we saved some parts of the construction, specifically in the kitchen, for Dad and Mr. GFE to accomplish.
I never liked bar height for dining so I designed a bi-level peninsula with one side that was kitchen table height where my ladder back chairs would go. (We had later inherited mahogany chairs from Mr. GFE’s grandmother that went perfectly with the Duncan Phyfe table.) The kitchen side would be counter space with cabinets and drawers underneath.
The part I loved best was the built-in bookcase at the end for my cookbooks. Dad was especially skeptical about the bookcase factor, but he had accomplished woodworking projects far more challenging than that, so I knew he could do it, and he did. Beautifully.
I will see Dad in the ceiling of my kitchen. Part of the country look for my kitchen was to have a wooden ceiling with beams. Dad planned the layout and he and Mr. GFE made it all come together.
I will see Dad in the hassock that I rest my feet on as I write. He had this hassock made for my grandmother, his mother, and she gave it to me after using it for many, many years.
Later in life, Grandma was one who embraced all things new and happily gave away her “old stuff.” Hence, I ended up with her china, silver, and much more when I was first getting set up in an apartment. (I treasure and use all of those items to this day.)
I will see Dad in the picnic table by our lake that he found for me at a yard sale. I “put in my order” and a week later, I was handing Dad $15 for this practically new, perfect picnic table and we were putting it in its place by the water.
I will see Dad in the treehouse that he built for Son. Mr. GFE helped, but Dad was the architect and foreman.
This treehouse is really more of a tree chalet. Dad designed it so that it would comfortably hold two Army cots and a cable spool table.
It is screened with a screen door, a storm window, a balcony, and is self-standing, but nestled in the trees. Son’s treehouse received major use for many years, being the site for Halloween parties with ghost stories told by Pop (Son’s other grandfather, who is sadly, also no longer with us), overnights with buddies, and many nights of Son sleeping in the treehouse with his own Dad, Mr. GFE.
The balcony is large enough that Mr. GFE and I’ve even enjoyed the occasional evening drink there as the evening fades.
Son Couldn’t Wait to Show Dad the Very First Fish He Caught
I will see Dad in the leather-seated Mission-style chair that belonged to my grandfather, his Dad, which I was given while I was in college after Granddaddy passed. I always needed storage space so I asked Dad if he could add a shelf under the chair. Of course, he could, and to keep the chair’s historical integrity, he made the shelf a removable one, crafting it so that it sat on the bottom rungs of the chair and was almost hidden. The shelf was not often noticed by others, but it was a great place for storing my current stack of magazines and books waiting to be read.
I will see Dad in the rocking chair that he made, the one in which I would rock Son to sleep at times. I’ve never seen another rocker of that exact style.
I will see Dad in two “bookcases” in our house. He always corrected me and told me that they really were not bookcases. They were “those old shelves for paint cans.”
Yes, he had made them to store gallons of paint and the like. He gave them to me when I needed shelves and he no longer needed a ton of paint cans in his shop. I painted them and they became treasured bookcases.
I will see Dad in our dear nephew, my sister and brother-in-law’s son. When we collected photos of Dad for the photo boards for his service (such a helpful and constructive activity for grieving families), we realized with delight that when Dad was a young man he looked very much like our nephew.
Dark curly hair. Beautiful, sometimes slight, smile. And the poses he often struck.
Early Days of Dad Working Civil Service at Quantico (First Row, Third from Left)
I will see Dad in all the photos over the years, the ones that are tucked away in my photo albums and the others that are framed and out on display. Here are Dad and Mom on their 21st wedding anniversary.
That’s my sister with them. She was 14 at the time. I was 20 and in my first apartment.
I remember being so pleased to be able to host them all. I vividly remember the menu for that evening—Slow Cooked Bourbon Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots, Southern Style Green Beans, Baking Powder Biscuits, Sweet Tea, and Fudge Pie (the gluten-full version of this recipe poured into a crust).
Mom, Dad, and My Sister on Their 21st Anniversary Dinner at My Apartment
Dad Read His Beloved Newspaper and Then Napped After Dinner
I will see Dad in nature … a flock of turkeys, deer grazing, noisy and busy squirrels, and the occasional fox that I sight.
I will even see Dad in my own eyes, the green eyes that he had and Son, my sister, my nephew, my niece, and I all also have.
But I will no longer be able to see his kind and smiling face, be able to ask for his help and advice for just about anything and everything, feel his fatherly hugs, and hear him say with genuine caring and interest, “How are you doing, girl?” And that is simply hard to face.
We’ve already experienced two of the “firsts,” the first Super Bowl without Dad and today the first Valentine’s Day without Dad. The Super Bowl has always been a family event for us—another occasion to share great food, fun, and laughter, and simply to be together.
Valentine’s Day in our family is another day to show our love to each other. We always exchange Valentines and small gifts. If you’ve lost a loved one, you know how challenging those “firsts” can be. Happy Valentine’s Day, Dad.
When I Served Dad Baked Sriracha Ginger Cumin Chicken
About a year ago, my mom had taken two spills within 24 hours (weather and medication related; she’s just fine now) and when my sister took her into the emergency room to get checked out, Mr. GFE and I headed over to check on Dad and take him dinner.
As luck would have it, I had just baked a chicken (with rice and vegetables) the day before, I was so happy that I had a proper meal to take him as Dad has always been mostly a “meat and potatoes” kind of guy.
I was a bit worried that the chicken might be a bit spicy for him since there were slight Sriracha and fresh ginger factors. He welcomed and eagerly ate his plate full of food and said it was good, and I was so relieved and pleased to be able to provide that small measure of comfort to him.
So in preparing to “go on,” here’s that recipe for Baked Sriracha Ginger Cumin Chicken for you today. It’s classic comfort food and a simple dish (which were always Dad’s favorites) with just that little bit of spiciness (some might call it a bit “zesty” versus spicy), and we can all use some of both on a regular basis, right?
Baked Sriracha Ginger Cumin Chicken Recipe
Classic comfort food that's slightly spicy. Perfect for Sunday dinner but it makes a lovely meal any time. If you think everything tastes better with Sriracha, you might want to invest in one of these Sriracha2Go containers that clips on your key chain or belt loop.Baked Sriracha Ginger Cumin Chicken
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Melissa says
Oh Shirley, what a wonderful tribute to your dad — and on Valentine’s Day. Beautiful. What a handsome and wonderful man. Yes, it’s hard to imagine that life goes on when you lose someone so special. I know exactly what you’re saying with those comments. Thank you for sharing these heartfelt sentiments. Have a good day knowing your dad is smiling down on you. xo
Shirley says
Melissa–Thanks so very much or your sweet and supportive words, dear. You’ve been such a comfort to me, especially these last few months. I wish that neither of us had to lose our dear dads.
xoxo,
Shirley
Cheryl Harris says
Such a beautiful tribute, Shirley. I enjoyed all of the pictures,especially the one of you graduating college! It’s clear from you post that you had a close and warm relationship, and it’s so wonderful that you have so many reminders of him around–although I’m sure there are moments that’s tough, too.
You’re an honor to your father’s memory.
Shirley says
Thank you, Cheryl. I appreciate your sweet and generous words. That photo has always been one of my favorites. It was an especially joyful day. I am happy to say that thinking about all these moments and memories have provided more comfort than pain.
Shirley
Donna says
Shirley, Your blog is so warming, healing, and comforting. What a wonderful way to take care of your heart.
Shirley says
Donna–Awww, what a super lovely thing to say. I so appreciate all your words!
Shirley
Lisa Johnson says
Thank you for sharing your Dad with us. Over the years I’ve loved the posts that you’ve written about him. I’m so sorry for your loss. Also, I appreciate the information about dementia. My family is suddenly struggling with this too. I haven’t written about it on the blog yet and not sure if I will. At least at this point. Take care Shirley. Sending you good thoughts!
Shirley says
Hey Lisa–Thank you. That is such a kind thing to say. As you know, even when we as bloggers get comments, while we appreciate them, we don’t always have them “locked” in our memories. So we don’t always remember the appreciation that our readers have had for our “real life”-sharing posts.
My heart goes out to you and your family in your current struggle. It is a situation that one would not wish on anyone and while we look for solutions/best way forward plans, the answers are rarely forthcoming. We found ourselves extremely frustrated with the lack of resources and mostly had no choice but to be reactive instead of proactive. Everyone tells you that there’s no perfect path forward and you simply do the best you can, but none of us can possibly understand the situation until we’re living it. Sending you big hugs and strength for today and the future, Lisa. Happy to listen any time you need an ear.
Shirley
Audrey @ Unconventional Baker says
This was really touching to read, Shirley. Your dad sounds like a wonderful man to have in one’s life. I can hear the wisdom in his words in that life needs to go on — imagine what life would be like if our parents never moved on after losing their parents, you know…? Sending you lots of hugs and and a lot of strength with getting back into life and living it to its fullest ♥
Shirley says
Hi Audrey–Thank you, dear. On all. xo,
Shirley
Kristina says
Shirley, my friend, you have definitely been in my thoughts. I totally get that feeling that it feels weird to blog, I felt the same way, but it can help. especially writing this, as difficult as it may have been, can be so helpful in ways you may yet feel.
this is a wonderful tribute, I loved reading about your Dad. thank you for sharing, sending you love. xo
Shirley says
Hey Kristina–Yes, unfortunately, you’ve walked this road already. Thanks for being so gracious as to offer both your support and share what you learned from your experience. Writing this post and capturing Dad in these ways was helpful to me and gives me a happy focus that I can always fall back on. We both hit the jackpot when it came to fathers, and I’m so grateful for that.
xo,
Shirley
Cindy W. says
Wow, that was a very touching post Shirley. It made me tear up wishing I could have had a dad like yours (mine left our family when I was 6). You have so many beautiful memories to cherish. So sorry for your loss.
Shirley says
Hi Cindy–Thank you so much, dear. I was truly blessed to have such a wonderful father. My heart goes out to you on not getting to have that same type of experience. I can’t imagine how difficult your father’s departure was at the time and always.
xo,
Shirley
Marianne says
Shirley, my heart hurts for you. I’m sending you a humongous hug. This is a wonderful tribute to your Dad. I can picture so much in your words. I lost my dad over 10 years ago. He was only 61.
Shirley says
Hi Marianne–You’re a sweetheart—thank you, dear, for all. I’m so sorry that you lost your dad so early. I was truly blessed to have mine so long.
Shirley
Megan Ancheta | Allergy Free Alaska says
This is such a beautiful tribute to your Daddy. Thank you for sharing him with us today; he sounds like he was a very talented and wonderful man. Love you, Shirley.
xoxo,
Megan
Shirley says
Thanks, Megan. I so appreciate your love, support, and super kind words, dear.
Much love,
Shirley
Vicky says
What a lovely tribute to your father Shirley, you must miss him so much. Sharing and writing about him must have been difficult but those wonderful memories will be so comforting.
I hope this helps – you won’t be able to feel the hug physically but one day you will be able to “feel” it mentally! I can almost feel a physical hug from my Dad, even after all these years without him.
I’m so sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you and your family throughout this difficult time.
Vicky xoxo
Shirley says
Hi Vicky–Awww, your comment brought the tears back … in a good way. Thank you, dear. I’m finding comfort in the memories already and trying to take a moment for a “memory hug” daily. I’m truly so glad that you can still feel your Dad’s hugs, Vicky.
xoxo,
Shirley
Alisa Fleming says
Shirley, this is the sweetest tribute I have ever seen and your words are so touching. Your dad looks like he was full of so much love and pride, just like you.
I’m so sorry for your loss. It reminds us all to hold tight to our loved ones!
Shirley says
Alisa–Awww, you have me all choked up. Thank you for your sweet words on Dad and for such a high, high compliment. Yes, please do love and appreciate your loved ones for sure!
xo,
Shirley
Sheena @ Tea and Biscuits says
So sorry Shirley about the loss of your sweet father. Your post is a really lovely tribute to him, I enjoyed scrolling through your old photographs and reading about his life
Shirley says
Thank you, Sheena … on all. There’s something so captivating about seeing a person’s or a family’s photos, isn’t there? Going through all our photos, finding the ones that were of Dad or included him, and putting them together for the service was really a good experience for us all. It gave us something positive to do during a difficult time and brought us so many laughs and smiles. 🙂
Shirley
Adrienne says
What a lovely post, Shirley. I especially love the photo at the top.
I’d never heard of that condition – very good information and I am sure some will be helped by it.
Blessings and Happy Valentine’s Day to you.
– Adrienne
Shirley says
Hi Adrienne–That is one of my favorite photos, too. It turns out that my mom has had it in her wallet all these years, but she’s passed it on to me now. Must find a special frame for it and have it near me always.
I do hope that someone who needs the info on Lewy Body Dementia and Capgras Syndrome will find the information here. I think it would have been such a help to us to have known earlier.
Hugs,
Shirley
Susan says
My sincere condolences in the loss of your beloved father, Shirley. You paint a wonderful picture of a loving, caring, talented man who loved you and expressed it in helping you throughout your life. Thanks for sharing the pictures and words of love for your father. He is surely looking down on you every day and giving his wonderful smile.
Take the time you need to be kind to yourself and give your family an extra hug today.
Shirley says
Susan–Your words are so lovely and comforting. Thank you so much for them, dear!
Extra hugs back to you for your support,
Shirley
Arman @ thebigmansworld says
Absolutely beautiful tribute you’ve written here, Shirley. Thank you for sharing it with us (and the delicious recipe too). It can’t have been easy but at the same time, heart warming to put the memories in writing.
Shirley says
Hi Arman–Thank you very much. Yes, it was not easy to write this post for sure, but it definitely was heartwarming and comforting to think back on everything that Dad did for all of us.
Shirley
Elisa says
Holy cow, you really got me crying, I feel your hurt, I lost my dad two years ago but there is a big difference between you and I. All the memories of your dad are good and wonderful, I only have a few good ones because most of them are bad and so hurtful. You were so blessed to have such an amazing dad and by the way, you really got me crying, I always wanted a dad like yours. Although, you forgot one more thing, you will always be able to see your dad again, yes, in your dreams, you will see him in your dreams. My heart to you and your family. 🙂
Shirley says
Hi Elisa–It looks like you’re new here at gfe. That makes you taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment as your first comment all the more special and appreciated. I am so very sorry that you didn’t have all those special positive memories with your father. And, yes, you are so right. I have already seen my dad in my dreams and that really was a comfort to me. Big hugs to you, Elisa, and thanks for all your support!
Shirley
Linda says
Shirley, that was a wonderful tribute to your dad. Thanks for sharing those photos with us. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs!
SherriS. says
My deepest sympathy Shirley. What a lovely tribute to your father. As a lover of photography and memory keeping, I am happy that you have so many photographs of your dad for your family to treasure. God bless you and your family.
Shirley says
Thank you so much, Sherri. We have so many amazing photos that we couldn’t possibly display them all at the service. We will definitely treasure all of them and look back to some very special memories.
Shirley
Angela says
Beautiful Written! I too understand how you feel after losing my daddy last May. I morned the death of my mother 17 years ago now…. For a really long time……and Kennon suggested writing down everything that I loved about her…….and when I found a book called “Rembering with Love”, I did that and what a relief and joy it brought. With the passing of my daddy, I knew it was coming and was able to sing “Amazing Grace with him, share a few funny times and remember him with love by telling and doing a few things for him after he died that we can always laugh and talk about. Well, their is no grater love than a mama and daddy who love us so much… Your healing has already begun with your sharing …you will miss him but he is right their with you supporting all your days…
Shirley says
Angela–Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and for offering your support and sharing your experiences. I know that Kennon’s advice will help not only you, but anyone else reading her who needs a positive way to let go of some of their grief. We all need to grieve, but it’s a relief for sure to turn to all the positive instead. I’m so glad that you could do some special things with your Dad before his passing. It’s still very hard to let parents go, but those special memories do help get us through and go on.
It was really wonderful getting to spend the weekend with you all! Thanks for making Mr. GFE’s birthday so special. 🙂
Shirley
Bunny says
So sorry for your loss, Shirley. What a lovely way to honor your Dad. I believe that paying tribute to him is healing for you, so even though it hurts while you’re blogging, it may help you work through the pain of losing him. Such wonderful memories you have. Thank you for sharing.
Shirley says
Hi Bunny–Thanks so much. Blogging some again IS helping in general and writing this post really helped me focus on all the amazing memories that I am so lucky to have.
Hugs,
Shirley
Kylie Sandover says
What a beautiful tribute you’ve written about your Dad Shirley. Thank you for sharing such lovely memories and photos. Sending love and hugs xoxo
Shirley says
Kylie–You’re a dear as always. I so appreciate your support!
Btw, I received your beautiful book on the Margaret River region–thank you!
xo,
Shirley
Kylie Sandover says
You’re very welcome Shirley. I’m so glad it has arrived! I was getting worried that it may have got lost in transit.
Shirley says
Me, too, dear! It takes such a LONGGGGGGG time for international mail!
Joy says
I agree with everyone else, that was beautiful. It was kinda hard to read since my ‘Daddy’ (I’ll always call him that) will be 87 on his birthday. It makes me appreciate him so much more every day realizing the inevitable. Even being older with grandchildren of my own, he will always be my Daddy. Much love to you.
Shirley says
Hi Joy–It looks like this is your first comment on gfe. That means so much that you would take the time to leave such a wonderful comment to comfort me. I hope you get to have and enjoy your Daddy (of course, he will still be your Daddy!) for a very long time to come!
Hugs,
Shirley
Cassidy @ Cassidy's Craveable Creations says
So sorry to hear about your dad, it was a touching tribute. Sending love and hugs your way.
XOXOXO,
Cassidy
Shirley says
Thanks, Cassidy! All is so appreciated!
xoxo,
Shirley
Kalinda says
This is beautiful Shirley. Thank you for sharing all your wonderful photos and stories. Sounds like your Dad was a wonderful man. My condolences for your family’s loss.
Shirley says
Thanks very much, Kalinda. Your sweet and positive comment makes me think that I did a pretty good of capturing my dear Dad, and that makes me so happy.
Shirley
Carole says
MY DEEPTEST SYMPATHY TO YOU SHIRLEY AND YOUR FAMILY. THE TRIBUTE OF YOUR DAD IS SO BEAUTIFUL AND YOU HAD SUCH A WONDERFUL LIFE. YOUR MEMORIES ARE SO PRECIOUS AND WILL CONTINUE TO LIVE WITHIN EACH OF YOU.
GOD’S BLESSINGS TO EACH OF YOU.
Shirley says
Hi Carole–Thanks so much for these sweet words, dear. I know that you know great loss firsthand so your words are even more special to me, Carole.
Hugs to you,
Shirley
Maggie says
What a beautiful post Shirley. I love the pic of the 3 of you at your graduation 🙂 I’m so sorry for your loss, but I’m so glad you had such a lovely Father. I’ll be thinking of you, as always. xoxo
Shirley says
Hi Maggie–Thank you so much, dear. That photo has always been one of my favorites, too. It was such a special and joyful day. 🙂
xoxo,
Shirley
Linda D. says
What a lovely tribute, Shirley! After seeing your Dad’s handiwork, I think you must have inherited his attention to detail. Your kitchen peninsula with a bookshelf is brilliant.
Sending more hugs and warm thoughts your way.
Linda
Shirley says
Linda–I’m so sorry that I missed replying to this comment when you left it. I remember reading it and smiling and being “warmed” by your sweet and lovely words, dear. I know you know both the joy and the heart pangs of sharing memories of a parent’s life with readers. Hugs and warm thoughts back to you, my friend!
Shirley
Sarah || Celiac in the City says
I’m so very glad you re-posted this today on FB, Shirley — since being in Europe for the spring semester, I lost touch with all things blogging and blogger friends so I am finally catching up.
I was already tearing up from the very first photo caption.
This post. All of it. The most touching tribute. The photos and memories, which I’m sure are just a few of the many you have collected over time with your dad. I am one of the those that “has a father” but was always waiting for a dad — luckily Mr. CITC’s dad has become mine too, and I can bet he and your dad would have been buddies. Oh the wild life and building stories they could have shared!
Also: you are the loveliest blend of both of your parents, such a beauty, my friend. (I’ve always loved green eyes, so rare!)
And your kitchen just screams, (but in a welcoming screaming way) “grab a seat and make yourself at HOME!” How lucky you are to have built and inherited so much with and from your family. So special.
And of course the recipe sounds divine, sign me up for anything sriracha!
xoxo
Shirley says
Awww, thanks a million times over, Sarah! I so appreciate you catching up and sharing these very, very sweet and supportive words. I’m truly so glad that you have a Dad through Mr. CITC’s dad. I love the idea of your Dad and mine being buddies and sharing all those stories! 🙂 Now why haven’t you shown up to grab your seat and make yourself home yet?!!! We can have sriracha “anything.” I bet Johnna would even make her special Sriracha cashews for you! 😉
xoxo,
Shirley
Susan says
Oh, Shirley. What beautiful words clearly written from your hear. They touched mine. I lost my Dad many years ago. His birthday is tomorrow, October 3rd. I do feel his arms around me when I need a hug, and I talk to him in my mind …. and out loud. Like you, I see him in the “treasures” that he used and are now mine. I don’t think anyone ever gets over the loss of a parent, it just gets a little easier as the years pass. Hold on tight to the beautiful memories you have. They are a blessing.
Shirley says
Hi Susan–First, thanks so much for your sweet words! I’m thinking of you on your Dad’s birthday today and sending you big hugs, dear! I’m glad you have those treasures from your Dad and can talk to him and feel his hug any time. Nine months later it’s already a little easier. The pain of grief is not there quite as much on a daily basis, but the missing will never go away I know. But I have a lifetime of special memories as you say and I am very blessed indeed. 🙂
xo,
Shirley
swathi says
Shirely this is really touching post, I lost my mom 11 years ago, every day I remember her. It is really hard to lose somebody but that is life. Thanks for sharing with Hearth and soul blog pinning the chicken recipe.
Shirley Braden says
Thanks, Swathi. I am so sorry that you lost your mom. I am sure that you think of her every day. It is life, but a tough part of life for sure. I will be making this chicken today and thinking of dad. Thanks for sharing, dear.
Shirley
dowell says
shirley….altho grief is intensely personal, there are fundamentals of it that we can all relate to. i know you miss your dad greatly, if for no other reason than the fact that i miss my dad greatly. two different men, both united in dadship, both making family the most important thing, both leaving a legacy of love and admiration. this is a wonderful tribute, shirley, and it rings in my heart as i thought of my own father as i read it. tho i never met him, i am sure there is much of him in you.
love you guys
dowell and mary ann
Shirley Braden says
Hi Dowell–Thanks so much for your thoughtful and supportive words. “Dadship” … I like that term and know exactly what you mean. The only thing I really know about your relationship with your Dad is that you never wanted to disappoint him on Easter Sunday but that your good buddies always made that very challenging for you! I never wanted to disappoint my Dad either. He held me to a higher standard. Always. We will never stop missing them and wishing we could have one more chat, ask one more question … that is so tough.
Love to you both! See you in April. 🙂
S & S
Leslie says
What a poignant story Shirley. I lost my own Dad in 2011 and know how painful it can be, even years later. Sometimes food can be a wonderful memory, as we recall meals we shared with our loved ones.
Shirley Braden says
Thank you, Leslie. I’m so sorry for the loss of your Dad as well. Food memories are so powerful and wonderful, as you say.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. Hugs,
Shirley