For Dad

This picture spells VICTORY.
If any of you actually saw my dad's office before this, this really IS victory.

This post is for my dad.

He just retired this past Friday, and even though we know it's bitter sweet for him, we know that it's only the beginning to a new (and exciting) stage in life.

My dad has been working for The National Park Service for 30+ years (ish). We are known as one of those "park families"; every one of us has (or still does) worked for the park.

My memories of my dad working at the park consist of:

1) When I was little I LOVED the little cans of Tree Top apple juice that were in the vending machines in his office
2) My dad letting me eat from his secret stash of candy he kept in his office
3) Feeling special but also embarrassed that he had one of my art class masks that I made for an assignment hanging on his wall (it was hideous, but he liked it).
4) Park Service work parties consisting of lots of yummy (free) food and co-workers getting a little rambunctious after a few drinks AND where I got "Free Willy" from Santa (that changed my life...just ask my family....)
5) Feeling "privileged" and "special" that I could just walk into the headquarters whenever I wanted to and see my COOL dad who works in a BIG building.
6) Listening to his incredibly long answering machine message, and learning to set the phone down for a little bit before returning and leaving a message for him.

I love you dad and I appreciate you doing what you loved, and also providing for your family so well for many years, even if you had to deal with a lot of grief at times. You have left the park with dignity and no shame, and you have done a lot of good for the company that I know you don't realize.

Now go have fun in ALASKA!