Father’s Day is always special. In my family fathers are celebrated, as they should be. We went to dinner with our daughter early since she would be out of town, and we’ll continue to celebrate today.

My father became a parent not long after World War II. He and my mom were in San Antonio where he was finishing school on the GI bill. There would be two more coming, once every four years. He worked hard to support his family of five and was deeply loved.

My husband’s father became a dad later in life and they had two children. As a farmer all his life, he raised his kids on hard work and taught them about farming and family life.

My husband had two children early in life and again worked and supported his family. He was the local Boy Scout leader, baseball coach, and mechanic. He kept all our cars running since they were all used and in constant need of repair, in addition to the long hours at the job that paid the bills.

My son married into a ready-made family and the love that came with it. He emulates both his grandfathers and his dad. He is a mechanic, farmer, in addition to the job that pays for the things he needs and wants.

Not all children have fathers who are present in their lives. Parenting can be a tough job, but the fathers in my family stayed during the good and tough times. And we were glad they did. It’s possible that my sisters and I made our dad want to run away some days. But since it is Father’s Day weekend, pay tribute to the men in your life who raised you or were always there when you needed them. I miss my dad every day.

What are you reading, writing, growing, celebrating, or creating this week?