Father's Day Gift

Father's day came and went as usual... I don't really know what to make of it. When two of your children are distanced, you look forward to the calls, but in reality, I tend not to make a big deal about it. It is just another day. In fact, everyday is a great day to be a father, seriously!

To me, gifts are relatively unimportant (hear that kids....) Receiving gifts is not one of my "love languages". Spending quality time and hearing words of affirmation from family and friends are so much more meaningful to me. As such, I do have looked forward to the cards over the years... what are they really trying to tell me? Are they sincere? Is that how they really feel?

This year, my daughter Jennifer wrote me a letter....

"Some say imitation is the highest form of flattery. It that’s the case, prepare to be flattered! Here is a list of 10 things that I catch myself doing that I could have only learned from the best – you!

1. We change the lyrics to songs, even if we know the real words
2. Instead of cleaning, we make piles and swear to put them away later, which we eventually do
3. Occasionally, we might possible slightly overreact about small things
4. We sing to the instrumental parts of songs with dos and dums
5. Once we’ve experienced something great, we can't wait to share it with others, trying mercilessly to convince them to try it for themselves
6. We don’t really use the recommended measurements in recipes when we cook (your creations generally turn out better then mine do)
7. Of course, we both beg and plead to have our backs and feet rubbed
8. Once we’ve been someplace once, we can get there again without any directions. We’re just talented that way
9. Our canker sores really bother us, so people are advised to steer clear, lest they want to endure the grumpy moods that are sure to come along with those devilish mouth sores
10. This one I’m ashamed to admit to, but we keep our eyes peeled for anyone who know or might even recognize, as we are out and about. Obviously, we usually stop to say hi when we see someone we know.

So I know people usually say that I’m a lot like Mom, but they don’t know the truth. We really are a lot alike and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I love you, Dad

- signed Jen Jen "

I am glad I have a legacy to pass on. I am so proud of all three of my kids.... proud in so many different ways. And as a father I burst with pride when someone says they see me in them... and then to have them admit to it, well that is really awesome! And at the risk of boasting, the qualities that Jenni listed are really cool! They are among the things I want to pass on! Not all, but some of the things.

As a mother or as a father, you can only hope and pray that you had a positive impact of the lives of your children. For me, this letter from Jenni is some evidence of my impact. I pray that as my children raise their own children that they will be so lucky.