Dampa

In order to fulfill a promise I made to myself to update my blog/photo journal more often in the year 2011, here is my long delayed post about my friend and father-in-law, simply know by family as Dampa.  Once again, I feel inadequate to write this post, even thought it is mine, just mine...why should I feel inadequate...because...I convey my feelings best through photos...not words...after all...anyone who really knows me...knows I cry at Hallmark commercials...and at almost every wedding I've photographed I've shed a tear at the "Mother-Son" dance...guess I see my life in fast forward a bit too often. 

So what brings me to muster up the guts to write this post today?  Today is the one month mark of Dampa's transition to the other side.  This whole year so far has been on a fast forward track for us Minors...but there are times when reality just isn't real!...and this is just one of those times...but right here and now...I'm going to try my best to cyber-tribute my Dampa...and then...one day at a time...move on with life.

Dampa, we didn't see this coming...not by a long shot...and we miss you terribly. 
We are keeping the memories alive however.  We are grateful for the times you spent with us, and your dog and our kitten seem to have developed a bit of a "friendship" that we are sure would light up your smile!  As Nick and Josh grow, I am confident we will continue to see many of your wonderful traits and qualities in them...and for that I am grateful and forever comforted.  You were truly a one of a kind gem.  We love you and miss you everyday!

The resemblance is uncanny?

Matt and Dampa at Maria's wedding this past summer

                

Dampa with his six grandchildren, this photo taken in January after Damma's funeral

We opened our "17" year old bottle of Dom Perignon, to celebrate our  Wedding Anniversary and toast two of the most wonderful people in our lives.