Long Live Sentimentality

"Are we doing anything Saturday morning?" your dad asked me two weekends ago.
"I might need to borrow Brian's truck."
Of course, I couldn't let it go at that.
I pressed him until he informed me he had to pick up my mother's day surprise.
Now the wheels really started spinning.
What could it be that would fit in a truck but not my SUV?
I decided it must be a treadmill.
Practical, yes, but not the most romantic/meaningful gesture in the world.
Never fear, Alexis. Your dad always has a surprise up his sleeve.
I could not have been more delighted to see this new addition to our yard:

A sweet, little, pink dogwood tree (it will bloom pink next year).

Because he knows how much I love the others out front.
Because he sees how excited you are now that all our flowers and bushes and trees are in bloom.
"It's something you and I can watch grow over the years" he explained.
And, just like that, I was reminded how lucky you are to have the father that you do.
He knows when to be practical,
but he also understands and appreciates sentimentality.
What a catch!
You were so excited to wish me a "Happy Mother's Day Mama".
You were so curious watching the tree get planted, Lexi.
You were more than eager to help add a little dirt to the pile.
And, as for me, I will smile each time I use the treadmill at the gym.