Hi Bob. I'm trying to make my fast passes for Disney World and it's not working. Oh well. What's really getting to me is that typically at this time of year, in addition to planning fast passes, I'm planning in my head what day I think you'll come and spend with us. Don't worry about whether you have a fast pass or not. We'll get you in. We always get you in.
I remember the first time I met you. It was at your 70th birthday party. A joyous occasion, thrown by Aunt Carol in your honor in NYC. In the blink of an eye, we were celebrating your 80th birthday. In between, much time was spent with you in FL at Disney during Thanksgiving time, Christmas, and Block Island, which is the last time I saw you. I didn't think it would be the last time I saw you.
My cheeks are warm with tears, and no, they are not "crocodile tears". They're all too real.
There are some things I can't stop thinking about. Your Santa hat. Thanksgiving mornings that were ours while the others were out golfing. How kind you were to my children.
I never thought that I would be one for collecting Disney pins. The lanyards. The pins. The weight of it. Until you gifted pins to my children one year. And every year thereon out. Now Amelia has a lanyard full of pins. And just like that, my perspective has changed. They're pretty. They're cool. I find myself "borrowing" them for my own denim jacket. I think we will find a new pin each year to add to the collection in your memory.
Last thing to share, I promise! A couple of years ago, on Valentine's Day, a package showed up in the mail for Amelia & Brandon. The contents were an electric shaver for Brandon, and a beautiful necklace for Amelia. We pored over the card for a minute, trying to decipher the handwriting inside, and we finally recognized it as Bob's. It wasn't from Bob and Aunt Carol mind you, but clearly from Bob. I will never forget that surprise and the smiles it put on all of our faces.
I will miss you Bob. Thanksgiving, Disney, Christmas, Block Island, the 5 food groups and all of our crocodile tears put together can't even begin to sum up my love and gratitude for you. Thank you for the happiness you brought to me and my family, and for all of the memories. For opening up your home and your heart to me, to us.
Love you Bob.