A tribute to my dad.

Father's day is tough for me. My Father in law has passed away and my own wonderful father is thousands of miles away. I think about my dad a lot lately. I watch the special relationship develop between my own daughters and their father and I know how wonderful it will be as they get older. I subtly (or not so subtly) encourage my husband to do the wonderful things I remember my dad doing with me. Being silly. Special trips out together for just the 2 of us. Making me laugh until I cry. That stuff...Stuff that emphasizes the special relationship between father and daughter and also sets the tone for all relationships with men in the future.
You see, I had a wonderful father. There were some tough times for all of us, but he always worked hard to provide for us, went without extras (like his dream car so I could have braces), and protected me as best he could. He gave me the best gift a parent can give a child--themselves. I can remember having my dad's time, undivided attention, and love from, well, forever. And he and I connected in a very real way: same kooky sense of humor, same outlook on life, same physical constitutions. And even as an adult, he has continued to be there for me, supporting my dreams and ambitions even when they carry me half way around the world from him. Following me on that path half way around the world himself, when he'd be far more comfortable in his own familiar environment.
So, on this Father's Day, even though I can't give my dad a physical present, I'd like to let him know that I'm doing my best to give him the best present a child can give to a parent. Adoring Grandkids.


I love you, Dad.