Father’s Day

June 15th, 2008

It’s Father’s Day, and all day I have been a bit emotional. I watched Meet the Press this morning, while Kristen did some house work, and I played with the twins (Abby was at the camp with my folks). Watching the panel talk about Tim Russert, and his relationship with his son and his father really got me teary-eyed.

I’m a lucky Dad and a lucky son.

My father taught me the value of family, and the value of a strong work ethic. I always remember my dad standing in the stands at the hockey rink, even when I was riding the pine through High School; he was there – every game. My dad was there for me, no matter what I was doing, he supported me through it all. Everyday I get up and head to work, I am reminded of my dad never complaining, never being home sick, just always working and coming home to be there for me. But what strikes me more now is the way my dad connects with my kids; he’s a proud papa. Driving the kids around on the golf cart, pushing them on the swings, taking them for walks, or to the beach… he’s now there for them whenever they need him.

I hope that I can be the same for them, as I grow older.

The main thing that sticks in my head is that Kristen and I were told that we’d never have kids on our own. A council of doctors told us that we’d be given one more shot. And we were blessed with Abby. And 2 years later we we’re blessed with the twins. 10 weeks early, and in the NICU for 66 days, it was a test to us. Also considering we were told point blank that we may loose Cameron, a 80 percent chance of surgery, reduced down to no surgery and a little butterball perfect kiddo – we are doubly blessed.

Everyday I question whether or not I am a good father. It’s a constant thought stream, what can I do to make my family better. What can I do to give them everything that they need?

That’s what got me so emotional over the Tim Russert story. He had said in an interview that they replayed, that the only thing that mattered to him in life, was to see his son grow older and have a child of his own. To watch him grow and become the great father that he knew he had within him.

Everyday I come home to three great big hugs, and a kiss from my wife. What more can I ask for? I hope that I can pass along to Cameron the values my father passed on to me, that to be a great dad comes from the heart.

Love you Dad!

Entry Filed under: Family Update