Birthday Socks

I wanted to share this week the special sock project I have been working on for my father in law, whom is struggling with lung cancer right now. I just finished them today and my husband is going for a visit this weekend. I am afraid time is short and precious these days. It was his birthday this past Monday so I finished them at a perfect time. Here is a personal letter that I will include along with his socks.

Dear Dad,
I wanted to make you this pair of socks as my way of letting you know how very special you are to me. You are, you know! I only regret that I didn’t begin them sooner but I am glad that I finished them just in time for a birthday gift. I wish I was there to give them to you in person but I know that you will understand, that it is difficult for me to get the time off from my new job.

As I sat and knitted each and every stitch, thoughts and prayers for you were on my mind. I hope they will warm your feet the way you have warmed my heart with many memorable moments.
Making the socks gave me the time to remember some of the wonderful things, that make you, YOU!

Like how you used to butter Mandy’s toast and then pop it back into the toaster, so it got all nice and melted. Like the huge honorable impression you have made on my boy’s lives (and that includes Jim). Like listening to your deep calming voice, sing gently to all of the little grandchildren. Like looking up at you sitting up so high in the cab of your tractor, when lunch was brought out to the field. Like how the dust left smudges of dirt on your face, after a hard days work. Like how totally handsome you looked on Jim’s and my wedding day.
Like the strong look I saw on your face every time I kissed you on the cheek. Like the wonderful way you took care of mom when she was sick and really needed you…

You are an amazing man and I am truly blessed to have you in my life. I love you so much Dad.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!