Dad was not tall, but he was dark and handsome. He was also very charming and had a natural care for, and interest in other people. Born in Mexico, Spanish was his primary language a fact that was evident when he spoke. His accent was exotic, and his speech flowed with a light and rich air. It was very pleasant to just sit and listen to him talk. It helped that there was always a smile in his talking, just below the surface. And, he told stories, wonderful stories, made more wonderful by his telling, always with laughter along the way. Dad was easy going, very bright and an artist – he designed buildings and homes and furniture and who knows what else.
Regretfully he was not in my life much of the time. Marriage had become less permanent by the time of my birth and Mom and Dad went separate ways when I was young. An occasional trip and one long stay are all the time I had with him. But that was enough to know how special he was, and to miss him, and to be grateful.