We had a jam-packed day yesterday. Woke up in Richmond at 4am. Breakfast in Philly at Reading Market. Lunch in Manhattan near Central Park. Pizza and wings with the in-laws in Schenectady.

In the past I would have commented something along the lines of, “what a fun day.”

I was much more deliberate with my words yesterday. “One day the kids will be thankful for the memories we created today.”

One of my earliest memories is the family vacation my dad took us on before he took his life. I remember seeing Louie sleep in the middle seat of a small car. His head was tilted back and his adam’s apple was sticking out. I think I remember a western played in the movie theater on the ship. I remember swimming in a small pool on the deck. I remember walking through a market and buying mom a small rock necklace.

There’s much I don’t remember about that trip. I don’t remember his face. I don’t remember him holding my hand or picking me up when my legs got tired. I don’t remember us complaining or asking, “are we there yet.”

I didn’t flinch yesterday when I saw the $87 parking bill yesterday. Ok, maybe I did- but I didn’t regret it. It was worth it. A small price to pay for a memorable day.

I’m not sure how much the cruise for the four of us cost ca 1986. I know he was stressed about money from his business venture that had just failed. He may have been struggling with major health issues. He didn’t have the money and he was running out of time. Whatever he spent, it was worth it.