This is the day we honor our fathers. We have family get togethers, we spend time with them, we send cards across the miles, we make phone calls, we get them gifts, or we spend some time thinking about them. There are lots of us out there whose fathers aren't with us on this holiday. For some, it's a day of remembering the good, the bad, and the ugly. (Hey, no ones perfect... not even our fathers.) But I would guess that fond memories are with us all. I've been thinking of all the things I did with my dad that made me feel very special. When he went on Saturdays to play tennis, he would take me with him. While he played with his friend, I would hit the ball against the wall at the high school - wishing that someday, I could play as good as he did. After getting all A's on my report card, he and I would go out for dinner - and it was always to a fancy schmancy place (or so I thought at that age) and I felt so grown up and special to be there. He had the highest expectations for me, but I also thought he had reasonable expectations and at least some degree of understanding when I didn't live up to them. He instilled strong work ethics in me. He was a good example for having faith and doing for others. He demonstrated kindness, manners, and love of life. I will be forever grateful for these gifts.
I have also been blessed with a wonderful father-in-law. I always tell him that he is my favorite father-in-law, as I assume that I am his favorite daughter-in-law. We are both the "only" for each other. He is a very special man, and to this day, a loving father to his adult children, grandchildren, and to me.
I've been double lucky. :)