I’m giving you fair warning.  Father’s Day is Sunday, June 19^th.  That’s next week.  Mark your planner, add a note to your phone, do whatever it takes to remind you.  Understand that I’m not speaking for myself, as my girls are pretty good about remembering – but I wanted to make sure everyone else is aware.  I’m doing my part to draw attention to all the hard-working, patient men out there who spend each day making sure their families are taken care of.

Dads do their thing without much fanfare.  As males, we are inclined towards problem solving.  Got an issue?  Dad will solve it.  As our kids get older (and our relationships/marriages get longer), we have to learn to temper this instinct, as quite often our partner just wants us to listen, or it becomes time to step back and let our offspring make their own decisions (and their own mistakes).  Still, Dad is always there to jump in and help.  Honestly.  Just ask him – he’ll do it.  Need a late-night pick-up at the airport because your flight got delayed?  Dad will come get you.  Need help moving into a new apartment or house?  Dad will be there – and he’ll borrow a buddy’s truck to help haul stuff.  Car’s got a problem?  Dad will fix it – or knows someone who can.  If you think you have an insurmountable problem, go to see Dad.  Odds are he can offer some assistance.

Even though he’ll never say it, don’t let the old man fool you.  He’s looking forward to this coming Sunday, just to see what’s in store.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a “Dollar General” card the kids got him at 10:30 on Saturday night, a bad tie, soap on a rope, or a bottle of scorching hot sauce, just the fact that someone in the house shows him a minute or two of appreciation one day a year is enough. 

You know Dad.  You know what he likes.  Cater to him for a few hours.  If he enjoys the outdoors, take a walk with him.  If he likes country music (but you despise it), suck it up and let him choose the radio station while everyone is in the car.  It’s just a ride to the store.  If he wants to fall asleep on the couch while watching the US Open, for God’s sake, give the man some space and let him do it.  If he’s far away, give him a call.  Dad’s aren’t used to attention, and a single compliment can sustain a father for the next 364 days, so carve some time out and let your Pops know how you feel – especially if he’s still around.

My brood has plans for me this coming week.  We’re going out to enjoy some Maryland blue crabs.  It will be an afternoon of good food, a few cold beers, and loud conversation – all with the people that I love the most. 

It’ll be a good day.