To My Dad..."standing knee deep in a river of abundance"

There's a favorite author of mine, whom I have been turning to for years, as I seek to live my life peacefully, while managing the occasional chaos and angst.  Sarah Ban Breathnach authored a book called 'Simple Abundance" years ago, and I have treasured my copy since finding it in (you might guess) a local Thrift Shop.  Today's quote fits this entry well, as I intend it as a tribute to my Dad, about to turn 90 years young in two days.  
Dad knows all about abundance, and appreciates every bit that comes his way.  A new member of our household since July of last year, Dad never ceases to inspire me with his appreciation of all things beautiful, curious and mundane.  Dad is never bored, as his senses serve up a constant stream of things to speculate over, comment on or just simply observe.  Most notably, as I write, there is a hum of the local contractor's excavating equipment, heard most days from 7am to 5pm.  I have dubbed my Dad supervisor of the construction across the street, as he is so interested in whatever the "guys" are doing.  They may be inside and out of sight, but Dad is sure about what they are up to...windows, insulation, constructing a  fireplace?  Naptime requirements include my turning his bulky recliner just so, in order for him to see outside and over there!

Construction is only the latest of Dad's occupations, abundantly available in our neighborhood  since he moved here. Though Dad's knees may buckle and the shortest trips to the bathroom are challenging at times, there is always the strength to stop and notice the photos on the fridge or on the family calendar.  Occasionally, there is a new plant or a forgotten gift left under the tree or on a counter...all cause for observation.  Even the hand towels in the bathroom are not overlooked, and we frequently converse over where I found the lovely ones...can you guess? 

The more time I share a space with my Dad, the more I realize that I have learned to observe, listen to and speak of  beauty from him.  Music...whether Broadway tunes, French folk songs, operatic arias or classical hymns has pervaded our lives and our lifestyles....underscoring all our celebrations as well.  Dad was a member of the adult church choir when I too participated in the youth choir.  I remember the pride I felt in singing Gregorian Chant at Catholic Mass, knowing I was "just like him".  ...Opera on the basement radio, Gilbert and Sullivan recordings in the living room, harmonizing to "When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver" in the car with Mom...abundance of  musical opportunities...abundance of joy!

Abundant thanks to my Dad, Andre Pierre....thanks for the love of so much and so many in the simplest of places-sunsets out the car window, music everywhere, savoring "slivers" of luscious and pretty desserts, people- wherever we find them being just who they are.... 

Thanks for continuing to "stand knee deep in a river of abundance" though your legs are weakened  and your aging heart aches at times.  Thanks for not letting the depth and occasional current of life's river disturb you, but for persevering and exulting in it's abundance!