Poking The Frog

My father was and still is one of the strongest, most 'larger than life' and loving men I've ever known!

As a pre-teen and early teenager, if I wanted to ensure the opportunity to purchase something that I desperately desired and/or needed, I had to do the "ride along" with my parents to the Meijer or K-Mart store. Turning 16 and driving became a luxury beyond my comprehension; however, until then, I had no choice but to endure the "Poking the Frog" moments that seemed to fuel my father's existence.

He often would hold up and ask loud questions regarding anything of the feminine nature that happened to be in the cart, hidden below the bags of frozen veggies. He would claim to not know what they were, what they were used for, who put them in the cart and often would tell the clerk that he wasn't going to pay for them. All just to get a reaction from anyone.

He is a man who wouldn't be ignored and could keep a straight face. Where did he learn to do that and why did I not ever have a fun profound response? All embarrassment turned to laughter and smiles as he would announce "ice cream cones all around" on our way out of the store.

Today, my father and I have had many heartfelt and serious conversations about life along with regular "poking the frog" fun moments. My father has that invisible frog that thrives on being poked and enjoys the banter of nonsense. I've become wise to his ways as a 40 something woman however; it's enjoyable to watch and listen to my son take grandpa's bait. Spencer being a Notre Dame fan and dad being a die hard Michigan State fan......those two are never at a loss for a good bantering conversation.

Love you Dad!