Father's Day 2009

I'd like to dedicate this Father's Day blog to my father, William H. Ranta, and my husband, William R. Endsley. I think it's kind of neat that both my father and my husband are Williams. That name is pretty popular in my family. My brother's name is William (Bill), my grandson is Will, Erin's husband, Jesse's father, was Bill, too, (and her brother-in-law). Whew, that's a lot of Bill's. I guess that just means it's a cool name. My dad passed away in 1989. He was born in Brainard, Minn.; the first child in his family to be born in the US. His family was from Finland, and dad had the bluest eyes and a great head of blond hair. Gee, I find that just writing about him makes me tear up. He was a great dad, with human frailties like most of us. The thing I remember the most about my dad was his love for his family, and how he grew the most beautiful roses and amazing tomatoes. His roses were his pride and glory. When I look at roses today, they remind me of my dad. What a beautiful thing to have to remember your dad by. I know he's up there, just waiting for my mom, whose trying her hardest to hang on and get well (previous blog). I love you mom and dad! To Bill, my husband, I hope you had a great Father's Day. You are my sweetheart. Since the day I met you, I have felt safe, and I know that you will always watch out for me. You're a great father, and I feel very priviledged to have you in my life for now and forever. I love you. Well now, that was truly a sentimental blog. I guess you need one of them every once in a while. I meant every word!