My dad was a not only a father, he was a teacher, a hard worker, a traveler and more. He taught me how to use all the tools in his toolbox. As a cabinet maker he had huge toolbox. He would pick up a screwdriver and tell me what it was and what it was used for and how to use it...then the next time he wanted a screwdriver I could tell him all about a screwdriver--or a hammer--or a pair of pliers.
He taught me history. He loved history and taught me to love history too. When we visited anywhere, he told the stories of the people who lived there. The stories made history come alive for me. I always followed his model when I taught history to my students, as the stories were far more interesting than the dates.
He taught me a work ethic, albeit I did not know it at the time. Sometimes he worked 3 jobs. I knew that if I wanted something I had to earn it. He would say "You can't get nuthin for nuthin." You need to put in time, effort and skill. Based on that, I always tried my best as that was what my parents modeled all the time. It must have worked as I went to school--and went to school--and went to school--until I became a Professor. I believe that was one of my dad's happiest days. His little girl did well.
Along with everything else, he taught me the love of travel. He was very successful at that task, as I've traveled a lot. He did too. I remember road trips when I was a kid. To me, they were exciting and full of adventure. We were going to some place new, and I loved that. I believe my dad was more than a tiny bit jealous when the other DrC and I bought our first RV. He could hardly contain himself as he looked it over and thought about all the fun we were going to have.
On this day I remember my daddy. He wanted to live forever but sadly that did not happen. He did see the Millennium. He passed away in July of 2000. He is gone but not forgotten. Happy Father's Day Daddy. And, Happy Father's Day to all the other daddies out there too. Remember, we're all in this together.
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