Today brings back memories of my dad, who lost his battle with prostate cancer 3 years ago. I was blessed to have my dad with me the last year of his life, after becoming his caregiver the previous year, it was simply easier to move him in with me.

Looking back at that final year, I realize how much my dad and I connected. Seeing us in our roles reversed, with me making decisions about his care and well being, made me realize what a tremendous job it is to be a parent.

Don't we all say.... when I am a parent, I am not going to do... (fill in the assorted things your parents did), and then one day you realize they did it out of love and concern and for your own good.

Erased were all the hurt feelings, the anger, resentment of those growing up years. Today, I am thankful for the rules I once thought were so unfair. Grateful am I for the discipline and structure he brought into my life. Appreciation for how he struggled to provide for us has replaced the feelings that he was never around.

Somehow my dad and I managed to pack a lifetime into that final year simply by spending time together. I encourage anyone who still has their dad in their lives to appreciate them, because time goes by so swiftly and can never be recaptured.

I am fortunate to be able to say, I don't miss my dad, because he is in my thoughts daily and I speak to him whenever I choose.. my dad was always a good listener.

Happy Father's Day, Dad