This one is personal.
July 7, 1996 was the day that my father passed away. I was 25 years old and not ready to lose my Dad, it was a shock to say the least. I’ve lived almost half my life without my Dad. Crazy.
Thinking about my Dad while painting this. He was a quiet man, but when he spoke, it was intelligent, thoughtful, important, or hilarious. He loved life, and he loved his family! It wasn’t always easy, but he never complained. He fought for his country in Vietnam, a broken back earned him a purple heart. Still, he worked in construction to support his family till his last days. Lots of layers. Full of love, full of heart, he helped everyone and anyone. He left behind many friends and family that will always cherish his memory. RIP Kenneth Robert Arp 12/25/45 – 7/7/96.
Tiffany Arp-Daleo Art 
Beautiful painting!
I’m so sorry you lost your dad. They always say time heals, but I don’t think that’s true. You never really heal from losing a loved one. Sending hugs your way! 🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Michelle! The healing is a life-long process, thank goodness all the great things he left with us!
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a handsome man, and you look like him!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Judy! He was a gentle man with a big heart, I definitely got his afro hair! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
So very touching – what a wonderful tribute all around, Tiffany. It’s clear to see what a good man he was & how much ya’ll loved each other 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Adan, I am very fortunate to have had him as my dad! Lots of love!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Some things never go away.
For me July 7 was also a terrible day in 2016.
We probably miss the ones we loved most for ever. I can relate to ow you feel about losing your dad. You know, we are never ready or able to accept the loss of loved one.
yes, I miss my parents, too, a lot, especially mom who passed away last year. I have grandchildren 21 and 16, but mom meant everything to me. Neither dad, nor mom ever had a really good or easy life, it was just work and work. Well, I just continue.
Sorry for the terrible experiences this day brought you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your kind words, Inese, and I am sorry for your loss as well. They will always live on in our hearts and memories!
LikeLike
I’m so sorry.
You carry him in your heart, and you put your heart into your art.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Jay, I appreciate your kind words!
LikeLike
This is such a beautiful painting. You have really captured the essence of the love you and your father shared. I’m sorry for your loss. You both look so happy together, and I’m sure he continues to be incredibly proud of you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, I really appreciate your comment! 💕🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re are a brave daughter of a brave father 💕💕 God bless you 🙏❣️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, I am very proud to be my father’s daughter!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome dear! And Yeah I know you must be 😊🌺
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful painting!
You look just like your father.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much!
LikeLike