Today would have been my dad's 99th birthday. Except he would have called it "the 60th anniversary of my 39th birthday" because he always said, when asked how old he was, "I'm 39 and holding."

He died 18 years ago, and I don't think there's been one day that I haven't thought about him. He was THE funniest man in the world. I wish you all could have known him. He always had a kind word, a joke, and a smile. He loved everyone, and everyone loved him. He was larger than life, in spite of his small stature. He ruled every room he was in.. he LOVED being the center of attention. No one could tell a story - (true OR made-up) - better than he could. He had a big heart, he loved life, and he lived life to the fullest. If I can be *half* the kind soul that he was, I know I will have succeeded.

Buon Compleano, Papa! Ti Amo Molto!