Goodnight, Old Man

by Margie Senechal

Today's my Monday. Usually I try and get my blog written on Wednesday so I can clean it up and post it in the morning. But, yesterday, my father-in-law died after a short battle with cancer. And so, I didn't get a chance.

Last week I read a book called I Liked My Life which dealt with an unexpected death and the aftermath for the family. One of the things I loved in this book was how the victim watched over her family and perhaps influenced some of their decisions. I'd like to think that might be possible. 

I know when I have dreams of my dad--not often enough--it always makes my day better. Even if things start to go astray, I think, "I had a dad dream last night" and a loving warmth spreads through my soul. And all is well.

Ironically I started this book before I knew how sick my father-in-law was as he basically brushed off any health concerns when my husband had talked to him. 

While at times Mike and his father had a complicated relationship, Pete was always there when we needed him--whether it was to fix a car, change out a faucet, or just bitch about a bad call on the Seahawks. Their 2014 championship was probably one of the highlights of his life. 

When I needed a car after my car was totaled, Pete and I had to drive out to Camas to check out a Saturn--which I still own five years later--It was just the two of us and I asked him questions about his life and his parents. Stories that I could pass onto my two daughters, the only Senechals left of his line--although I hear there's a mess of Senechals scattered across France.

Well, it's time to get to work. So, for now, goodnight, old man, goodnight. Be sure and pop into our dreams once in a while.