Father's Day

It's an interesting day for me. It brings up both happy thoughts and sad.

Obviously I first think about my own Dad. We don't have the best relationship now that we are both grown-ups. And sometimes it makes me sad. But for some reason, even with our faults and frustrations, I still think of my Dad in a positive light. I remember how he was the first 17 years of my life, and not how he changed after my parents' divorce. I remember him being fun. And full of excitement. He loved to scuba dive and bring home weird fish and crabs and all kinds of things from the depths of the ocean. He loved going to amusement parks and riding roller coasters. He loved to eat. I get my love of food from him. He always joked and made people laugh. He liked to tease us and scare us and tickle us until we'd giggle hysterically. He was always really good about taking home movies that we still watch to this day. He walked me down the aisle at my wedding and gave me a hug so strong, I thought I'd break. So those are the good things I remember about him. And even now, with past hurts, when we see each other, he still makes me laugh and just wants to have fun. I do wish he lived closer and was more involved in our lives. But I've also learned that I can't control his choices and sometimes we have to accept people just as they are. My Dad has taught me a lot about life and a lot about myself. Through good and bad, he has helped shape the person I am today. And I'm pretty awesome, so he did something right. HAHA. I always carry the hope that someday things will get better for us.

The next Father that came into my life was my Step-dad. Wow, did I hate him. For a long time. And that was no secret. I did not welcome him into our family with open arms. But over the years, I have learned more about who he is and where he comes from. He has a surprising gentle side unlike any other. He loves to BBQ. He's an excellent grandfather. He repeats his jokes all the time. He provided a great home and environment for my Mom and my younger siblings to grow up in. After all our issues and how poorly I treated him, he understood. And when I needed to move back home to save up money, he welcomed me in and helped me out. That's when our relationship changed. As adults, we can look at each other and respect each other. And I appreciate all he's done.

Another Father I have is my Father-In-Law. He is quite the character. He is loved by millions, and I'm serious when I say that. Everyone he comes in contact with - he brightens their day. He is funny and sweet. He has such a caring heart. He has a really thick Armenian accent, which just makes him more fun to talk to. He can talk your ear off about the old days in Jerusalem or when he worked for the King of Jordan or when he lived in the desert or when he went to college at Brooks Institute. He followed his passions and worked as a photographer for many years as well as a jeweler. Unfortunately, his dreams got cut short and he went out of business. He is still hurt by that, but always encourages my husband and I to work hard and follow our dreams. His only worry is that we live happy lives. Even though he has no money, he still asks every time we see him "Do you need anything? Do you have money?" He is the kindest soul I have ever met. And I'm so glad his son takes after him!

Then there is my husband. Not a Daddy just yet. But oh my gosh. I know he will be amazing. I have no doubt in my mind. He is an incredible man who works so hard to provide us with a great life. And I feel like I've watched him become that man. We met when we were so young and even then he always worked hard for the things he wanted. He makes me laugh every day. He has a filthy, filthy mouth. He loves to relax, but also enjoys a good camping trip or road trip here and there. One of our favorite things to do together is travel. There are so many places we want to see. He leaves his clothes everywhere, but always does the dishes without batting an eye. He gets more handsome all the time. I can't wait to see him with kids. He's never really been around them, but the way he is with my nephew - its honestly adorable. He turns into a big pile of goo. It will be fun having a family with him.

So these are the Father's in my life. We've all shared good times and bad. And they've all taught me valuable things. I wish them all a Happy Father's Day. XOXOXO