“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him”
Psalm 103:13
Hello dear friends! In honor of Father’s Day this coming Sunday I wanted to update a post from several years ago that you probably haven’t read, it was early in my blogging journey. I am so grateful to have my precious Daddy still with us at 88 years of age. He is such a joy and has a mind that is so sharp with his quick wit and humor still being the best…I love to see him laugh. You can read his story here and it is a story that is worth your reading.
Daddy had been saving for months. He walked many miles along the streets of our hometown delivering mail so that he could make that big purchase…a RCA Victor console stereo. To a six year old, that beautiful mohagony cabinet that played music was magical! When that delivery arrived from Ross-Grambling Furniture, we all gathered around and admired the lovely wood cabinet that added character to the 1960’s decor of our little house! Not only was it a nice furniture addition, but the beautiful sounds that came from its speakers filled the entire house!
The music playing was my Daddy’s music-the music of his generation…”back when music was music” as he often says.
“Gonna take a sentimental journey, gonna set my heart at ease
Gonna make a sentimental journey, to renew old memories”
Bud Green
The old 78 rpm’s spinning on the turntable were his favorite Big Bands such as Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and Glenn Miller
The male singers were crooners like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Perry Como!
The ones that I identified with were the rich and pure vocals of female singers like Jo Stafford and Rosemary Clooney.
Realizing very quickly how much I loved music, Daddy gave me money and I bought my first 45 rpm record…Travelin’ Man by Ricky Nelson (my first singer crush)! It is funny that I have such vivid memories from so long ago!
The gift of music has a way of spanning time and generations! A few years ago, during what turned out to be one of the hardest years for our family, this gift of music gave us a memory of a lifetime! Daddy, Butch and I went over to the Fabulous Fox Theater in Atlanta to hear one of our favorites, Johnny Mathis perform. His performance with a full orchestra and all of his standards gave us such a beautiful night of music and a memory we will always treasure!
On one occasion, our city hosted The Glenn Miller Band and boy, was it a sight! People of all ages gathered together for a night of dancing and good music! We sat in the balcony, and I loved watching my Daddy take in the night! Again, memories that I will never forget! I remember so many details of that evening…down to the food that I packed for our picnic!
Oh, the joy that music has and continues to bring to my life! At a small 80th birthday party for Daddy, I tearfully sang one of our favorite songs, “You Belong To Me”, recorded by Jo Stafford! The love of music runs deep in my family, and to think…it all started with a stereo. Today, the sounds from the RCA Victor console stereo have been replaced by the 40’s station on his Sirius/XM Radio. The subscription I gave him many years ago keeps “his music” filling his days! A couple of years ago a dear friend of mine gave Daddy a Crosley portable record player that he has enjoyed immensely. He has a nice collection of original albums from his favorite big bands. He and I often listen to this glorious music from a bygone era…his music!
All of these years have passed, and music is still as magical as it was when I was a little girl. The sound of Daddy’s music is what awakened a desire in me to play and sing-one that was cultivated by my parents with piano and voice lessons for many years. Looking back, I know that they sacrificed to provide those for me. And another thing I know: my love for music was not coincidental, but God-ordained. Music introduced me to the love of my life…my all-time favorite singer! And each Sunday, as we see our son leading us in worship at our church, we are reminded that the music continues. What began so long ago when my Daddy was just a little boy listening to music on the radio is still alive in our family!
May the gift of music always be a sweet, sweet sound in our Father’s ear.
Thank you for spending time with my Daddy and me. If you have sweet memories of your dad, I would so enjoy reading them. Wishing all the fathers in your life a most wonderful Father’s Day!
Linking with:
Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, A Stroll Thru Life, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home, Rustic & Refined, Life and Linda, Celebrate & Decorate, Me and My Captain, Shabby Fufu, Designthusiasm, Imparting Grace, Calypso in the Country
Cherished memories no doubt! I remember getting our first console stereo and thinking how grand it was! Music does have a way of connecting us!
Music definitely connects us, thank you dear Liz!
What a wonderful post! We had one of those console record players too, listening to many of those same artists. My mother had a crush on Dean Martin, so we heard a lot of that. I lost my dad in 2003, and still miss him terribly!!
We loved listening to Dean Martin and watching his variety show. Thanks Carole!
What a beautiful tribute to your Father and your music loving family! I love hearing that you sang at his party…
I remember our stereo! And all the albums that went with it!
And I do remember that post of when you met Butch over music!
Lovely post for Father’s Day!
Thank you my friend❤️
I have lots of memories of your Mom & Dad. Many playing ball and growing up, our family with your family. Treasure them all! ❤️
Yes, a wonderful place to grow up. We have many precious memories ❤️
What a lovely tribute to your Father, Pam. Such a blessing you received from your loving family and the gifts they gave you, along with memories to treasure forever. And it all has made you the special person you are.
Thank you for sharing your memories with us. Beautiful day to you, sweet friend.❤
Thank you dear Sandra, your comments are so sweet and gracious, just like you!
Awe, how sweet Pam, I remember music playing at your house way back when. My dad always loved listening to Patsy Cline, and my mom said my first crush was Ricky Nelson too, that I would kiss the TV screen when he was on there. I love having all these sweet memories to cherish. I always loved walking over to your house and visiting with your mom and dad. Every time I walked in the door, Uncle Coy would say Boy how you doing!!!! Such sweet and loving memories. Happy Fathers Day to Uncle Coy, love, hugs and kisses!!
We had a sweet time growing up so close to each other. Loving memories that we can still share! Love you Boy❤️
Oh I love this post about your sweet daddy. I just want to hug him! Music….the healing balm of the soul for me. Oh girl…I thought Ricky Nelson was adorable!!! Love the pictures. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Thank you Cindy. I will share a hug with my Daddy for you❤️
Both of my parents sang and my daddy played guitar and piano. He was a minister and church music was a huge part of my life. I became a church pianist which was Daddy’s hearts’ desire for me. After my brother and I married and had kids Daddy would get his guitar and we would all sing together. The grandkids loved it and he was still singing and playing after some of the great grandkids came along.
This summer my brother’s and my family are having a family reunion. Through the years our family has spread from coast to coast and places in between. But God willing we are all suppose to be there, but without our Daddy who passed away in his sleep in 2016 at age 94.
Guitar playing by my grandson and singing is priority!
By the way, my Dad held a revival in your home town long ago with his best friend, Rev. Ray Wood,who was pastor there. I remember visiting.
Nancy, wow thank you so much for sharing with me. I have been an organist and keyboardist since I was twelve. Your parents were talented with the gift of music. How interesting that your dad held a revival here in Gadsden. Do you remember the name of the church that Rev. Ray Wood pastored? Your reunion sounds wonderful and special thoughts on Father’s Day as I know you miss your dad!
Be still my heart Pam…we have discussed our similarities many times and your beautiful post today is no different. What a wonderful tribute to your father and I identify with your whole story. In my post today, I talk of impersonations and Rosemary Clooney, Jo Stafford, Theresa Brewer and Kay Starr were among the singers I imitated, working to get my voice with their unique sounds. One of my favorite bands was Glenn Miller…and I adored the movie of his life story with Jimmy Stewart and June Allyson….and how he wrote the song Pennsylvania 6-5000 and of course String of Pearls and Moonlight Serenade….which we had played when the Captain and I, married. Thank you sweet friend for the memories of your life in music…as it continues today as does mine. (Aside from singing in church, My daughter and I still sing duets)
Kari, we have so much in common. I love so many genres of music, from country to classical. My hubby and I sang duets for years, not very often now. I would love to hear you and your daughter sing…family harmony is the best! Thank you for your lovely comments my friend!
I love this post and I enjoyed rereading the post you did last year honoring your Dad. I would love to meet him. You are truly blessed to have such a special father and still have him with you.
This post is so endearing. Your sweet heart shines through.
My mother loved to sing but my poor Daddy couldn’t carry a tune but he sang joyfully in church. I didn’t realize he sang off key until I was much older.
Blessings to you Pam, Happy Father’s Day to your Dad!
Thank you my friend. What sweet memories of your mom and dad singing in the choir! ❤️
You are so lucky to still have your Dad Pam, and how wonderful he is so healthy and strong! It is obvious where your love of music came from, and I loved reading about your sweet memories with him! Happy Father’s Day to the dads in your family!
Jenna
Thank you dear Jenna. Sending you love and extra hugs❤️
Sweet tribute to your Father! Thank you for sharing!Hugs,dear Pam!
Thank you sweet friend! ❤️
Pam, you sure look like your daddy! By the time I finished reading there were tears in my eyes…the happy, sentimental kind. I so enjoyed reading your father’s story. What a life he has lived. My dad was my everything, and I was his princess. He taught me math and Latin, how to waltz by standing on his shoes, how to catch crabs off the dock, and most importantly how to always be honest and truthful. He treated my mother and his own mother like queens. Daddy passed away when he was only 58 from his 8th heart attack when I was 22. He lived long enough to see me graduate from college, which is the thing he wanted most for me. All women should be blessed to have fathers like ours.
Roxanne, what beautiful memories of your dad that you shared. I loved all the things he taught you…so special. He was so very young when he passed away, but I am so glad he saw you graduate college ❤️
Pam, What a wonderful tribute to your sweet, Christian daddy. Your home was filled with love and your blog always exudes love for God, family & others which is why I enjoy it so much. What a blessing to still have your daddy here on earth with a sharp mind & healthy body. My daddy always called me “baby” & also served in the Korean war as a paratrooper. Happy Father’s Day to your sweet daddy! Clara💕
Thank you dear Clara. Your sweet comments always brighten my day. What a sweet memory of your dad calling you “baby” . So many men of their generation sacrificed greatly for their families and our country ❤️
I especially love the photos of you and your Dad…a beautiful tribute. As Kari said, the parallels in our life are amazing. Our house was full of music. Dad played the piano, the banjo and guitar and never had a lesson. He sang in the choir and in a quartet. He played the guitar every Sunday at church. He was called on a lot to sing at funerals. Mother and Dad loved country music and listened to it all the time. The first record player I had was won by selling something for school. When it arrived I was very excited. It was near Christmas. That afternoon Dad slipped away from the house and bought Johnny Mathis for me. When visiting with Mother and Dad in their later years we would sit and listen to their music. Precious time that I treasure. My brother and I took them to the Carolina Opry in Myrtle Beach for many years so they could enjoy their music. Dad was a respected and beloved man. I got none of his talent. There is something about having music in the home. Thank you for this story and the beautiful photos. Looking forward to hearing about your trip.
Dianne, what a treasure trove of memories surrounding music and your beloved dad. He must have been quite a musician with no formal training, it was a God-given talent! How wonderful that you were able to take your parents in their latter years to enjoy their music. Hugs and blessings❤️
Pam, what beautiful memories you have shared of your dad. I too developed the love of music early. I begged for a piano and music lessons but there was no room in our tiny house for that instrument of my dream. My mom would sew to try and finish a garment to pay for a music lesson (1.50) the nexe day. I watched her sew thru her finger mam y times in the dim lit tiny living room. My dad had been in the Army and had said”baby, one day your daddy is going to get a mustering our check and you will get that piano. Watching for that yellow envelope became a daily habit..then…it came. I would see a little 12 yr olds dream happen. It would only fit at the foot of my Sisters and my bed…I have tried to give back to the Lord what He has given me. Thanks for letting me share this on your page. Love you, Carolyn
Sweet Carolyn, I so enjoyed reading your memories my dear friend. You persevered and became such an awesome pianist. Your gifts and talents have been used to bless so many people and you have honored the Lord with His gifts He bestowed to you. Much love my precious friend❤️
My dear friend Pam, I was excited to read you today. The memory of those beautiful things from childhood is exciting because they are always dictated by the heart. The love of a father like yours (and mine) will never be erased, the feelings of your affection for the family, your dedication, your love … that he has transmitted and transmits today are jewels for the soul that you will never forget. . . . . . , And with time they get better.
When I was little (between 6 and 7 years old), I used to go to the movies with my mother because he was a great movie buff. I have in mind many of the American comedies that I loved. I remember a little later, in the 50s, the movie “White Christmas” with Resemary Clooney, and everything you have named … what beautiful memories!
Your father is a handsome man of his years and has the soul reflected in his face: happy, sweet, affectionate with his family and so extensive.
A big hug for the whole family from this friend who appreciates and appreciates you.
Dolores
Dolores, tienes una forma tan hermosa de expresarte. Tus visitas hacen que mi día sea dulce amiga. Me encantan los recuerdos que compartiste cuando eras un niño yendo al cine con tu papá. También me encantó la película White Christmas con la maravillosa cantante Rosemary Clooney. La música es la banda sonora de nuestras vidas, muchos momentos se capturan con la música. Enviando mucho amor y un abrazo a través del océano para ti! ¡Bendices y enriqueces mi vida!
Oh Pam, says she as she wipes away some tears… what a loving tribute to this righteous and
upstanding soul. Memories of my childhood came flooding back.. music and all…When the Lord
blesses, He is knowing and abundant, though the blessings are often garbed in simplicity, easily overlooked. I agree with your Dad… “back when music was music’ lol. His legacy is a template that young men of today would do well to model if they wish to reach their golden years surrounded by adoring Family, peace and contentment with a life well-lived. I can see the wit, wisdom and humor in those twinkling eyes and joy-filled smile. Bless you for sharing your special Dad with us. Happy Fathers’ Day ….
Mary, you always warm my heart with your comments. My Daddy has lived life so well, leading by example. Music has been such an integral part of our lives, it has spanned generations! Have a joy-filled weekend!
Music was our only source of entertainment when my sister and I was growing up. We knew the words to every song and since we shared a bed, we sang ourselves to sleep every night. An uncle took pity on us and gave us an upright piano and kept it tuned so that we could learn to play the piano and have sing alongs. We alived across the road from the church and sang in the choir every Sunday. My sister at age 81 just recently stepped down as choir decorator. I sang alto and she sang soprano and often sang duets at church and funerals. Both our singing voices have gone south, mind more base than alto. Oh well, I’m still carrying a tune even if it is base. Sweet memories.
Alice, I love reading your memories. Is this your sister in NC? What fun times centered around music and your sister just recently stepped down as choir director, that is awesome at 81 still in active service for the Lord. There is no harmony like family harmony. Thank you for sharing ❤️
Aw, what a wonderful tribute to your sweet Daddy! I hope he has a wonderful Father’s Day, and you are able to enjoy many special moments with him! Music is a huge part of my Daddy’s and my memories together, too. Only our music is bluegrass. My Daddy played the five-string banjo and guitar. He taught me to play the guitar, and he tried to teach me to play the banjo, but I never could get the roll down pat. The other day marked the 19th anniversary of my Daddy’s homegoing to Heaven, and I miss him and my dear Mom terribly. The pain never goes away. I used to dread losing him and Mom, and now the dread is behind me, but the yearning for them never leaves. Every time I hear a bluegrass riff on a guitar or banjo, my mind instantly goes to seeing my Daddy playing and singing the high lonesome sound he loved so much. He had the most beautiful high tenor voice I have ever heard. He sounded just like Ira Louvin, in case you are familiar with the Louvin Brothers. They were one of his favorite groups, along with Flatt & Scruggs, the Stanley Brothers, Mac Wiseman, and so many others. Thank you for inviting us to share special memories here. God bless you, sweet friend.
Pam, What a sweet heartfelt post! Happy Father’s Day weekend to all the men in your family. ♥
Beautiful post Pam. We have father’s day in September here in Australia.
Bless you,
Jennifer
Thank you Jennifer!
This pulls at every heartstring I have!
Aw, thank you Jeanie!