When I got home from work this afternoon, I took a short nap. I woke up when I heard Bart talking on the phone and it only took me a few seconds to realize he must be talking to my mom.
My dad lectures around the country and he had flown into Austin last night and was returning back to Las Vegas this evening. He had opted not to tell us because he didn’t think he’d have any time to see us, since it was such a short trip. My mom, however, thought there was a good chance we could drive him to the airport and thus have a little time with him.
We quickly agreed and drove to his hotel about 15 minutes from our house (thanks to the toll road). When we arrived in the conference room, it was clear that he didn’t know we were coming and I waited until he’d finished answering all the questions and turned to pack up his laptop to go up and ask if he wanted a ride.
He was surprised and delighted to see us and we enjoyed almost two hours of his company both in the car on the way to the airport and then at a little cafe in the airport where we had a light dinner before he had to go through security and catch his flight.
When we go to Las Vegas, I invariably spend more time with my mom, since my dad is usually working and also is less likely to come along to get a pedicure, so it was nice to spend more time with my dad than I might otherwise get to do.
I’ve always been close to my dad – we are very much alike in many many ways and he’s always been interested in my everyday life (throughout high school, I would go down to his study right before I went to bed to tell him goodnight and spend about 30 minutes sitting on his desk, telling him about my day) – and I’m grateful for any time I get to spend with him, especially now that we live quite far away.
Even better, we’re going to Disneyland in a few weeks with my parents (and siblings) and we’ll get to enjoy each other’s company in the presence of Buzz Lightyear and Indiana Jones. Life doesn’t get better than that.
Lisa C says
What a great relationship with your dad! That’s awesome, as is your upcoming trip to Disneyland!!! Woohoo!
allee says
Gosh, that was a fun surprise!
Mary says
Ok, I’ll try to be happy for you and not jealous that you’re going to Disneyland. 🙂 I hope you guys have fun!
the one about Jenae and Seth says
Hey! When are you going to Disneyland? That’s only, like two hours from me! Yay for Janssen spirit in Cali.
Noelle says
How fun! I love that you surprised him at his meeting. This post makes me miss my dad!
Le Petit Chic says
So glad you got the chance to see your Dad. I’m quite close to mine too so I know how hard it can be to live far away from him.