I HEART DAD

The kids "tatted" up for Dad's day.

I've been thinking this morning about how lucky I am to have two wonderful Dads in my life. My Dad, Opa to Bean and Squeaker, and husband, Dad to Bean and Squeaks.

My Dad has always been the most available, patient, and uncomplaining Dad I know. He was also involved: changing diapers, cooking dinner, washing dishes, taking us camping, helping us with homework. You name it. My sisters and I were, and still feel like, his number one priority. With my Mom, he raised three independent daughters to be capable and confident. He set the bar very high as a father and a husband.

Husband is my partner in parenting. I learn how to be a better Mom from him every day. No matter what's going on outside of our house, he always saves his very best for the kids and me. The girls light up when they see him because they know he'll give them smiles and on-the-floor play with 100% of his attention.

His instincts about the kids are often better than mine. He can sense when Squeaks has an ear infection or Bean is about to hurl. And when she does hurl, he jumps into instant fix-it mode while I tend towards self protection (I have been known to rip my clothes off--I think in fear of getting puke on them).

He tells Bean that she's "interesting" and "funny." Not just "cute" and "pretty." My Dad did this, too.

Dads and Opas, we love you!