Wow...

I can't believe it's been five years. Time sure does slip away, doesn't it?

The sadness is long gone. The tears have dried up. Grass has grown over dad's grave. Time kept on progressing without him, just as it will after each of us is gone. I still think about him, though. Every day. I guess that's to be expected.

In the last five years, I've come to realize how fortunate I was to know that dad's time with us was very short. I was able to make the most of it. I was lucky, unlike many people I know who have lost loved ones since that hot Friday in June of 2005.

I've grown so much in so many ways since dad died. A lot in my life has changed -- my job, where I live, my general outlook on life -- but I'm also thankful for the things that have remained the same. In particular, I recognize that I'm at a time in my life where friendships tend to fade away. I've definitely lost touch with a lot of people, but I'm really thankful for those people who helped me through that tough time who are still in my life today. You know who you are. And most of you don't even know this blog exists, honestly.

Still, though -- thanks.