(Excerpt from the book, Tales From Heritage Farm) This poem is written in honor of my own dear Dad, Ervin A. Yankee.
First you saw my baby face?
It was red and scrunched together,
Still I was yours, in any case.
Do you remember, Dad
How you used to carry me?
You held me in your big, strong arms.
I rested comfortably.
I hurt so deeply long ago,
Can you still see those second-grade tears?
I could not help but cry.
Remember when you taught me how
To ride my new, green bike?
You steadied me, then let me go–
From then on, no more trike . . .
. . . You took my brother, Jim, and me
On trips out to the cabin;
Pony rides and ice cream cones–
Memories worth havin’. . .

. . . Remember when you brought me home
To show me my new sister?
I longed to stay and play with her,
But I just hugged and kissed her.
The day I left for college,
It was hard to say good-bye.
Yet your confidence in me
Gave me strength to try.

Remember how sweet it was,
Our hearts were filled with joy,
You and Mom had another son–
A towhead baby boy.
Remember the day you held my hand
You walked me to my lover’s arms
As we walked down that long aisle.
Now you have a bunch of kids
Who love to call you, “Grandpa.”
Can you believe I have seen the day
When one can call me, “Grandma?”

Dad, I hope you realize
That we love you so.
You’re dear Dad and fun Grandpa
I just had to tell you so.
photo credit: Johnson, Ashland, WI
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