Father’s Day is tomorrow and it made me think of my dad and what an influence he had on me and the holiday in general. Why celebrate just one day for father’s day? It originated in West (by God) Virginia in 1908 the same year as mother’s day.  It is funny, Mother’s Day you take your mom out, get her nice gifts, make breakfast for her etc.  Father’s day is different, I look forward to cooking out on the grill, hanging out with my kids and I am happy just hearing from them. I know I will never be in the father of the year category but as most fathers go, we get the blunt of the blame for our kid’s life and this is one day they don’t need a ride or money!  LOL.  My father who died in 1987 continues to be a part of my life.  It is funny you think your dad will always be there and one day he passes on.  I loved my dad; he tried his best and taught me a lot in his short life.  Things you normally would not think was good to teach your kids my dad taught me and it really helped through life.  I find myself sharing some of those lessons with my kids. My mom taught me to make sure I checked expiration dates on a milk carton, my dad taught me drinking beer out of a bottle was better because no matter how bad it got, you always knew the right end!  Amazing! I have not shared that one with my kids.  My dad was tough (Retired US Marine) but with it came tough love.  I remember when he found out I came home drinking one night.  Most kids would have expected the yelling, maybe a spanking back in the day, not my dad; he made me work my butt off in the yard and around the house until I got sick.  When I got done he smiled and said if you can’t hang, don’t play!  I will always remember that.  It is very true even today. He taught me to work hard, and act like a bear.  I always wondered what that meant until one day I figured it out.  Take long naps, eat well, and try and take care of your honey!  I figured two out of three was not bad.  LOL so tomorrow if you are lucky enough to still have your dad around, say thanks and appreciate the little things he tried to do.  I was proud to be my dad’s son.  He was an amazing man.  Until next time!