Happy Father's Day, Fritz!

This is Fritz sitting across the table from me at Brann's today. The prime rib was good, but watching a movie together with home-made pizza later will be even better. It's a small way for me to show him that I appreciate him and all he has done for our family on Father's Day.

Now, I would like to proclaim to all who read this blog that Fritz was single when I met him and didn't have any children of his own, but from the day we met some 17 years ago, he has always treated my three children like his own. When I say "like his own," I mean he did everything a father would do. That means helping to keep cars on the road, loaning money, offering a place to live free of charge, supporting their activities in many various ways, and so on. As they were going through the many changes of young adulthood things could become rough, even tragic, but Fritz was always there to be supportive and do whatever he could to make things better. And then came the grandkids! And that meant changing diapers, plunking down the cash when I picked out everything from clothes, outdoor toys, gas money, fast food, books, movies, art supplies, toothbrushes, whatever the grandkids needed or wanted at our house. When I become somewhat obssessed with my grandkids (as I often do) he quietly steps aside and lets me be Grandma, not asking for anything for himself, and not complaining when he doesn't get it.
So, today on Father's Day, I just want to say a huge THANK YOU fand I LOVE YOU for being such a great stepfather to my kids, a great step-grandfather to the grandchildren (which I consider "OURS") and for letting me be, and helping me be, the best parent and grandparent I can be. I couldn't ever have done it without you.
I would also like to send out a huge hug to all the dads in our family who work every day at jobs that aren't always pleasant or easy, who give up time they could be doing something for themselves to do something for the family instead, and who don't drive flashy cars or buy the latest toys for themselves because it makes them happier to see the family get what they want or need. For your sacrifices, for your love, and your unwavering support and dedication to your families, I wish you a wonderful year ahead full of blessings and God's grace for health, prosperity, and happiness! You are creating a present and a future that is making the world a better place to be. Love you all!