Father’s Day Part I: Reflection

This Father’s Day will be a tough one for me. My own father passed away in January, so the firsts are hitting hard. This was the first time in as long as I can remember that I didn’t hear the story, “I remember the day you were born…” on my birthday. It was the first Mother’s Day that didn’t include a quick call or text telling me how proud he was of my kids and it will be the first time I don’t have a Father’s Day card and gift for my Dad.  

My Dad was an incredible source of wisdom; he was an encourager who gave me confidence; he was a visionary whose mantra was, “If you don’t try (or ask) you are the one saying ‘No’.” He was a husband who cared for my Mom with amazing attention and tenderness during her illness, and he was an inspiration to many who called him a friend.  

But, he was also a memory maker.

A man who could turn any experience into an adventure and whose ability to make even a long drive interesting and exciting has created incredible memories for both his children and his grandchildren. And his greatest gift to us—memories that we will treasure, and that keep us smiling despite how much we miss him.  

I could write for hours about adventures that I’ve had with my dad, but instead, I want to share experiences and words of wisdom from fathers all around the world. Like my dad, they all share one thing–a passion and love for their children and desire to create lasting memories. However, they each have their own story, memories, challenges and approach to life.  And, over the next few days, I would like to share some of their wisdom and insight with you.    

Ed- Create Annual Traditions

Meet Ed. Ed is an entrepreneur whose business is quite seasonal. As a result, there are seasons where he works long hours and has few hours left to spend time with the family.  With this in mind, he has made it a point to create annual traditions that bring the family together and create memories that will last.

His hope?

That as his children start families of their own they will still take part in these well-established traditions.  

One such tradition is an annual summer trip to their favorite vacation spot. For more than 15 years they have spent at least a week of their summer vacation in “their place.” And each year they not only revisit their favorite activities but also seek out new adventures.

Ed’s words of wisdom:

“Time goes by so fast—you can’t spend enough time with your kids. Making lasting memories doesn’t have to be a long vacation. It can be a day trip, a fun activity or just spending time with them. But traditions create memories that we hope they will want to experience again and again.”

His boys are now in college, but they still look forward to yearly traditions at Christmas and throughout the summer.

How are you spending time with your kids and building traditions for your family?  We would love to hear how you spend your time together as a family!  Tell us in a comment below. And, remember to stay tuned for next Father’s Day post- Capturing the Moment.