Since before I was born, my Dad has faithfully provided for our family through the work God has given him. Even when we went through unemployment for two years, my Dad did hard, backbreaking odd jobs to help provide. Today is his last day at the job he has worked since 2003. There have been a lot of ups and downs, good days and bad days. Days my dad missed things because he was at work and days Dad took off just so he could experience things with us.
The thing that stands out to me is that my dad never complained about his job. Oh, I knew there were days and people that weren't fun, but he never complained. It makes me ashamed of all the times I've griped about my jobs, which have all been less stressful, less demanding, and fewer hours then his. I mean, he has worked ten hours in a day (not including the hour drive in and an hour drive back) so that he could work a compressed week and have Fridays with us.
Today, he says goodbye to his job, the friends he has made there, and his desk job. He is retiring and coming home! We're all so excited!
Now, we begin the adventure of having Dad at home all the time. We all know it's going to be an adjustment, albeit a fun one.
I'll keep you updated about how it goes and the adventures we have.