Go Daddy

Anyone can be a father... It takes somebody special to be a daddy.

I came across this quote years ago and loved it immediately. I've seen the "fathers" and I've seen the "daddys". I appreciate the difference and really, really, really appreciate that I'm married to a daddy.

Why are daddys important? Lots of reasons. And many I've seen in just the past day or two.

Daddys teach their kids the ropes -- whether it's how to swing a bat, whistle or push a lawn mower.

Daddys lovingly tease their kids so they grow a backbone (and mommys rub it when it gets bruised).

Daddys tell stories so kids hope that someday they, too, will grow up and have just as many entertaining tales to tell.

Daddys grow up to be like their daddys. And that's waaay cool.

Daddys (and grandpas) always have pocket change (or bills these days) so kids don't have to go hungry at the races.

Daddys are the reason there's golf on TV (and probably NASCAR racing, too).

Daddys protect their kids (mommys, too) from evil things like bees and bats and snakes in the yard.

Daddys are the brave ones who climb ladders and go into the dark house first and, oh once in a blue moon, chop a snake in half with a shovel to kill it (Can you tell how we spent Father's Day?).

Daddys have the most patience in the world (for kids and mommys). They roll their eyes when Mommy and Carter win 3 cakes from the cake walk at the church picnic but keep their mouth shut even though they wonder, "Why didn't they stop at one when we still have graduation cake left?" (Can you tell how else we spent Father's Day?)

Daddys give the world's greatest hugs (to mommys, too) and are the best snugglers (just ask kitty).

Daddys deserve more than one special day a year. Don't ya think?