Father Knows Best

I often think Scott is the better parent. He is ever-patient, fun, spontaneous and a risk-taker. All the things I am not. I like to think that in tandem we are a great pair. But, in reality, I know that I scored the jackpot when I married him.

This past weekend we celebrated Scott and my dad at our house. The many other wonderful men in my life – my father-in-law, grandfathers, uncles and Godfathers – were not far from my memory.

Dads just have a completely different take on life, we all know that universal truth. What consistently amazes me is how I see a different child when Dad is in the room. It’s a pretty beautiful sight and one that makes me fall in love with Mr. Whitaker all over again.

They say you marry a man like your own Dad. My dad is equal parts funny and hard-working. Giving and self-sacrificing. Handsome and wise. Dad, I love you for making me the woman I am today and teaching me to wait for an honorable, faithful, God-fearing man like Scott.

We feasted on baked ziti with sausage (adapted from this Williams-Sonoma recipe), french bread, caprese salad and, at the request of the dads, homemade apple pie. My grandfather made THE BEST homemade apple pie; that’s what happens when you cook for the Navy. I didn’t bust out the homemade pie crust, but it still tasted delicious. We opened presents, laughed and snapped some photos. I even managed to surprise Scott with a book about Reveille that has his ‘ol Army yell leader picture in it! (thanks Alyce, for the covert operation)

For some, like my hubby, Father’s Day is bittersweet. His dad passed away eight years ago and his absence is felt throughout the year, but particularly on a day like Father’s Day. May the lessons of the many men in our lives guide us, make us laugh, cause us to reflect and be grateful for our blessings!