#1 Dad

Music has been a huge part of my life. Of course, most of you are aware that my father is a magnificent musician. (also, writer, teacher, proofer, .....just to name a few.) :-)
I remember all those times we would practice for a service. He would sit at the piano and I would stand beside him, violin in hand (occasionally coming very close to poking his right eye out with my wicked bow!) Dad, do you remember all the arrangements we would come up with? "Ivory Palaces" and " 'Til the Storm Passes Over" - just to name a couple. Also, we would sing for hours on end.....
Now, in my place (which she should act as if it is a most holy place and precede with humility) Emily is the one by dad's side.
Dad was always there to tuck me in, rub my back/feet for endless hours (which my husband despises since I hold it over his head), helping clean the kitchen (which my husband also despises -haha) and on and on....
I never saw him show a bad attitude toward anyone. He was always there for people, going the extra mile to put a smile on someone's face. (And sometimes that required LOTS of work!)
But the most important, was the fact that after all the family was tucked away in bed, my dad was out in the living room kneeling in front of the old blue chair, praying.
Oh! Can't forget the countless hours he would hold that scanner and listen to stuff...listen to the trucks during the snow days of school to see if he would need to cancel, etc.
Still today, he is doing things for me. Bringing me donuts, helping me with my music questions, and just listening to my endless chatter.

I love you, dad! You are the greatest!
Love, Melanie Lynn
(I made the cake for him the other night...and yes, he was pleased! Sent his daughter the nicest e-mail - ahh...feelin' the love?!!)