A big reason why Tim Walz has won me over, BIG time [View all]

[Siwsan]

He reminds me of my Dad.

My Dad was a veteran, a teacher and a championship winning football coach. He, like Tim, was revered by his players, long after they left high school. They'd call him and say 'Hey, Coach. Wanna join us for a beer?' Then they'd stop by and pick him up. This continued until Dad's health took a sharp downturn.

Those that attended his funeral were in tears. He was their mentor and, in some cases, a father figure. Someone they knew they could rely on.

AND he was the best neighbor, ever. The people who lived in the neighborhood knew that dad, a jack of MANY trades, could always be called upon if they needed help.

Kind of sounds like Tim, don't you think?

Dad and I were very close so I see some of myself in his kids. He was the parent who showed me unconditional love. He was proud of me and was always there for the 'big moments' in my life, like sitting through all of my high school performances on stage, INCLUDING dress rehearsal. He attended my graduation from Navy boot camp. He was so proud of my service, even though I chose the Navy instead of the Marine Corps. He was a Marine until the day he died. We used to sit beneath the branches of his 'air conditioned tree', sipping on Manhattans and talking about our service.

25 years ago, Tuesday, my Dad died. I was with him. I'm convinced he waited until my mom and sister had left. The very last words he spoke were to me. The very last person he reached out to touch was me.

I see so much of my Dad in Tim and while it triggers some tears, it also fills me with confidence that Tim will be a stellar VP.