The Cardinal

This vacation has been one of many firsts.  It is the first vacation we've taken completely on our own, it was the first vacation we've taken of this length since we've moved to our new town, and it is the first vacation we've taken since my dad died...which makes it the first vacation we've taken without worrying about an ill parent at home.  In fact our last beach vacation three years ago was one where I wasn't even sure he would be around when we returned, and as we were close to home my mom let me know Dad was being hospitalized.  I miss him so, so much.  Just as when I'm home, there have been so many things happen that I want to pick up the phone and tell him something, but I can't do that.

Every morning this week, there has been a red cardinal that has been here on the top deck and has been trying to get into the house.  It has been such a constant that it has been comforting, although I am a little worried that it keeps flying into the windows!  I know it is said that a cardinal is the spirit of a deceased loved one, and Thomas mentioned that as well.  I think it might be my dad, reminding us that he is always with us no matter where we are.  It's been very comforting.