Fathers: Growing Up and Growing Older

Today is Father's Day. I truly hope that my dad and Carey feel loved and appreciated every day, but it is wonderful to have one special day set aside to really show them how blessed we are by them. As I sat here, thinking about two of my favorite guys, I realized how similar they are to each other.

Grandpa Al with two of his girls - Kristen and Abigail
Letchworth State Park - July 2009

My dad was always a very hard worker. He went to work exceptionally early in the morning, but always called Kate and I to talk with us before school. Going into work early allowed him to be home early, so he was always present at soccer and basketball games and track meets, as well as the myriad other things Kate and I did during our school years. And even when he wasn't at work, he was always working: stuff around the house, volunteering on our school's Board of Education, and being active at our church.

Carey with his babies at the playground
May 2013

Carey is the same way. Despite a one-way commute of almost 90 minutes, he leaves very early in the morning so he can be home every night to help put our babies to bed. He calls every morning to say hello to the kids and me (and often calls in the afternoon to check on us all again!). And when he's not at work, he's still working: handling our yard work, caring for our vehicles, and being active in our church.

I always had fun with my dad. He taught me how to play basketball. He took me to my first live concert (The Beach Boys at Darien Lake!). He always let me tag along when he was working on the cars or his motorcycle. And now, I have fun with Carey, too. We play Wii together after the kids go to bed. We love going to the movies together, and we can quote lines from TV shows and movies to each other, never failing to get a smile or chuckle. And perhaps best of all, my dad and Carey get along so well that we all have a great time whenever we're together, even though that's not as often as we'd like...

I grew up with an amazing man, and now I am growing old with another amazing man. Dad and Carey, I love you. Abby and Zach love you. We hope that you have a Father's Day that is filled with fun, laughter, and love, and we hope you feel loved and appreciated every day, not just today.