St. Paddy's Day

I have returned home and will return to the stage tonight, for St. Patrick's Day. My father was a proud Irishman, and so today is about him for me. The last week was one of the best and worst weeks of my life. No one expects their father to live forever, but when he is gone, there is a space left that can't be filled. The memorial for my dad was on Wednesday, and there were 300 people there, and so many others have sent condolences and cards and food, it was really inspiring. He had such a positive impact on so many people, it was truly a powerful thing to see the loss that a whole town felt. I had some very close friends who made the trip to Camrose, not just because they love me, but because my dad had made a difference in their lives too. I am just beginning my life without him, and I can feel that it is a long road ahead, but so many people told me how proud my dad was of me and I believe he would be very proud of how I was there for my mother, and when I spoke at the service, I could feel his presence urging my on, giving me strength. I loved my father very much, I will miss him everyday, and the love and support of my friends and family will be needed for a long time.