Sometimes, when one person is missing, the whole world seems depopulated.

I am missing my dad today.

I want one of his smiles, a little bit of his reassurance, and I wouldn't mind a few bad jokes thrown in for good measure.

I have talked before about how wonderful my dad was (and still is in my heart).

And today is one of those days that I just cannot believe he is gone.

I would do just about anything to have him back for an hour. I would even settle for a few minutes.

I need one of his bear hugs.

I need to hear his laugh.

I just want to be his little girl for a few more minutes.

My heart wants to be heavy with grief, but that is not who I am.

And that is not the girl my dad would have wanted.

So I am picking myself up.

I am smiling because my Dad had the best smiles.

I am remembering his favorite tie.

I am laughing at his dinner time stories about his school day.

I am loving him more and more each day.

I LOVE YOU DAD.