Thick Ankled Blondes

Today I read a post my dad wrote and it made me cry. I enjoyed his reminiscing, but it was the last line and the picture he added that brought the emotion.

Growing up I always knew that my parents loved each other. Their relationship held high priority. They kissed often, danced in the kitchen and had date night weekly. Dad had a saying. Don't make me choose between you and your mother... She is my eternal companion and I'll choose her every time.

As a child I felt safe in that knowledge. Protected. We had plenty of other worries, but we knew our family would be together forever. As a youth I began to watch my parent's relationship and wonder. Would I ever be so lucky to have someone who loves me like that?

My dad and I share a love language. Words of Affirmation. Words hold the magic of a spell. They can buoy or they can crush. A simple remark holds great power to one who speaks this language.

My mom and I share a physique. We'll spend our lives trying to overcome what comes so naturally to our voluptuous figure. And yet I will never forget watching my dad wrap his arms around my mom and say. I love thick ankled blondes. He said this often enough and with such sincerity that I believe it. He didn't pretend my mom didn't have curves, he embraced them. He didn't want a twiggy wife. He wanted my mom.

As I watched their interaction I learned an important lesson for a youth who was herself developing a buxom form. Love yourself. You are lovable. You have worth. And the guy who wins your heart is going to be a lucky fella. My dad's words of affirmation for my mother allowed me to feel beautiful. After all. I was a thick ankled blonde myself.

My parents make a pretty incredible team. They raised 10 children, each child blessed with unique talents and gifts. And through it all they endowed us each with the knowledge that we were special.

So when I read my dad's best memory... ever... how can I help but tear up? His love for her. Her love for him. It's what made me who I am. Thanks Mom and Dad. I love you too.

*Mom and Dad with Miss B when she was 3 days old.