The Time

Yesterday was Father's Day. I thought I would start this post off by stating the obvious. It's Monday, after all. I didn't get to spend Father's Day with my dad, but I did get to sit at home and think about how awesome I have it. I have a dad who loves me and is always there for me. I take it for granted, but days like yesterday make me realize how rare and special that really is.

I have a small obsession with anchors. I know that was a random transition, but let's go with it. From being a Delta Gamma in college to marrying a Naval Aviator, the anchor has just followed me everywhere I've gone. I think of an anchor as a stronghold: something that is secure, trustworthy, and safe. When you drop the anchor, you can count on it to hold the boat steady. In so many ways, that's the way I see my dad. He has always been the anchor for our family. He works harder than anyone I know for his children. He is a safe haven when the world seems to go dark. He is a constant in the sea of life's unpredictability. He's an anchor in my life. 

 

You know, the number one thing kids really want from their dad is time. When you're all grown up and living on your own, that's the stuff that sticks. He used to take us to Toys R Us when we were little and let us pick out a new toy each time, and I don't remember it. He shelled out money on new toys to make us happy, and they definitely were all we wanted at the time, but that's not the thing I remember. Instead, I remember him sitting at my TaeKwonDo practices for hours on end. I remember peeling hard-boiled eggs with him and getting gently teased that only half of mine were edible by the time I was through with them. I remember going on walks as a kid and my dad sticking his foot halfway into the street sewer to show me it wasn't something to be afraid of. Those are the memories I cherish as an adult, and those are the memories I hope Parker and I can fill ours kids with some day. My dad has been an anchor and a provider for our family. He has given us more than I could ever thank him for. Of everything he has given me, the thing I am most thankful for is the time. 

 

Happy Father's Day, Dad. I love you!