Fishin' With My Dad

When I returned to my home state of Indiana in August, I took my dad fishing. 

It was a gloriously warm, late summer afternoon. A perfect day to be out on the lake.

Yet despite the perfect weather, I had to practically drag my father there, kicking and screaming.

It's not like he hates to fish or anything. In fact, my old man is the consummate fisherman. He's undoubtedly logged over 10,000 hours of fishing during his lifetime, which many claim to be the tipping point of mastery.

One millionth Crappie caught
(Note: this is an approximation.)

No, my dad went to the lake kicking and screaming because, like many of us, he'd forgot how much he needed to do something fun.

We've all been there, right?  When we're really, really busy and stressed, the last thing we want to do is to stop and take time to relax. And that's where my dad was mentally.

He'd been worried about my mom, who's recovering from a major stroke, and so busy taking care of bills, the house, the insurance and the endless medical forms, that he'd forgotten it was okay to take not just any old break, but a really good, replenishing one.

Lucky for him, Dad has two loving daughters who relentlessly remind him to take care of himself. 

And that afternoon, this daughter prescribed a healthy dose of fishing.

****

Our first stop: the tackle and bait shop. 

This fishing lure is the only hot pink item my dad owns.
He insists pink doesn't go well with camouflage or plaid flannel shirts.

While Dad went in for bait I stayed outside admiring the landscaping. Ever seen this concept for a flower bed on Pinterest? 

Me neither! Who knew a rusty old truck could be so useful?

However, it does take you back a bit...

Anyway, once we got out on the lake guess who had a perfectly marvelous time fishing?

Yup. My old man.

And who was that brilliant individual who suggested it again?

She had a pretty good time too.