Retirement and Jet Sking

The day has finally come. My father is now retired. So many emotions were expressed today, by his co-workers, friends, my mom and himself. A chapter of my father's life has come to an end. It may be a little bittersweet, but I think for him it will be mostly just sweet. Like I said he still makes money just by sitting on his @$$. 

So I woke up and headed to the Houston Police Union Building where the party was being held. The morning did not start out great, especially for my mom. On her way to the Union Building she stopped by Walmart to pick up two full sheet cakes. Unfortunately there was a miscommunication between her and the bakery so both cakes were unprepared. She was furious. If you know my mother then you know she is not the angry type. In fact she is the most humble and selfless person I know. But ohhhh boy she was angry, and stressed. My brother ended up having to drive back to Walmart two hours later to pick up a different cake. Eventually it all worked out. However, then the caters showed up 30 minutes late. That also stressed my mother out. I think she just wanted my dad to have a great party because she knew he deserved it.

The party itself went well. A LOT of people showed up and ate barbeque. Many toasts and speeches were given. My dad was tearing up, my mom was tearing up (no surprise) and even some of my dad's co-workers were tearing up (a little surprised). He was presented with several awards including a proclamation from the mayor of Houston announcing a day in his honor. Murray J. Smith day will be happening sometime in September. Immediately my dad turns to the crowd and announces it a National Holiday. My sbilings and I cleaned up everything before heading back to Atascocita.

Three hours later I woke up from a long, much needed nap. My parents were already eating leftover barbeque for dinner and my siblings were on the couch half asleep. Around 7:00 my dad asked if I wanted to go jet skiing with him. I was so down. I hadn't been jet skiing in a long time. Long enough that I can't remember. My dad bought two Yamaha jet skies when I was 15. In high school I spent most of my weekends and all of my summer on the back of those Yamaha's. The best date I have ever been on was on the back of those jet skies riding off into the sunset. Cheesy, but true. Anyways, we choose the perfect time to go. Right before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The water was calm and reflecting the sun. Just Beautiful. The rest of the night included TV, ice cream and family. 

This is the type of day where you appreciate all God has given you. I truly could not have pictured a more perfect earthly father. He does so much for me and for others, and days like today remind me of how blessed I am. So undeserving of how many blessings have been poured into my life.