Story Behind The Song
My dad died peacefully at his lake home at the age of 90. He was completely lucid until the very end, and wonderful company, as always. I spent as much time as I could that fall, driving back and forth from the town where I lived and worked. I wrote an essay about writing the song, too. All part of the grieving process.
Song Description
No matter how much time we have to "say goodbye" to a loved one, it's never enough. There's no way that a song can contain the memories of a lifetime, but that's what I tried to do with this one.
| Song Length |
4:24 |
Genre |
Unique - Unclassified, Folk - Contemporary |
| Tempo |
Medium Slow (91 - 110) |
Lead Vocal |
Female Vocal |
| Mood |
Tranquil, Poignant |
Subject |
Heaven, Father |
| Similar Artists |
Joni Mitchell, Norah Jones |
Language |
English |
| Era |
2000 and later |
| |
Lyrics
V. 1:
We watch the sunset from the deck, the best Dad can recall.
I drape another blanket 'cross his knees.
Dry leaves at our feet - summer's turned to fall.
He says, "now, don't let Mama's flowers freeze."
Chorus: I'm SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD
Enjoying all we have.
I'M SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD.
I'M SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD
And all the precious times we've had.
I know I'm lucky I've got time for
SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD.
V.2:
We work a crossword puzzle; he's faster than I am.
But soon he's sleeping in his favorite chair.
His glasses on his nose, the pencil in his hand,
How will I find the words when he's not there?
Chorus:
Bridge: What a privilege to care for him,
And bring a smile to his face.
Every thought becomes a prayer for him;
He's leaving with such grace!
Chorus: I'M SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD....
I'M SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD
And all the precious times we've had
I know I'm lucky I've got time
For SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD.
Climb: His angel wings already show -
A glimpse of heaven, oh, I know
He's more prepared than me for letting go.
Chorus: (instrumental)
I know I'm lucky I've got time
For SAYING GOODBYE TO DAD.
Copyright Janet Preus 2001
651-271-6550