Thanks, Dad

Today I looked back through some of my old pictures, searching for a few to post in honor of my dad.  As I browsed through the digitals I have (from a disc of scanned photos - a gift from my parents), I came to the conclusion that throughout the years, my dad has been the one taking the pictures for the most part.  But I found a few, and it caused me to reflect on the amount of time, energy and dedication that goes into raising a family.  Even for dads (since we moms are reminded of that every day).

I believe it's true that you can't fully appreciate something until you have experienced it for yourself.  As a child, I don't think you have any comprehension of the sacrifices made by your parents.  Then you become a parent, and you begin to understand.

(My dad with my younger brother Matt -- 1974)

(My dad with my sister Jill ready for a Daddy/Daughter date -- 1975)

(My dad with my younger brothers Marty and Matt -- 1977)

(My turn for a Daddy/Daughter date -- 1979)

(My parents with Rob -- 1983)

(My dad and sister Jana, ready for a Daddy/Daughter date -- 1988)

Somewhere along the way my dad assumed dual roles.  He became a grandparent while still in the child-rearing stages of his own family.

(My dad with Joshua and Taylor -- 1989)

He's a great Grandpa (but not a Great Grandpa for our family... yet).

Thanks, Dad.  For all you've done, all you do, and who you are.  Please know that, at last, you are finally receiving some of that deep, true, and full appreciation you didn't get when I was young.  I love you.

Happy Father's Day!