Fathers, the brave men.

“There are many different kinds of bravery. There’s the bravery of thinking of others before one’s self. Now, your father has never brandished a sword nor fired a pistol, thank heavens. But he has made many sacrifices for his family, and put away many dreams.”

“Where did he put them?”

“He put them in a drawer. And sometimes, late at night, we take them out and admire them. But it gets harder and harder to close the drawer… He does. And that is why he is brave.”

(Conversation between Mrs. Darling and Michael, from Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie)

Lessons from my dad:

1.  Love God
2.  Early is on time
3.  Give affection daily in plentiful amounts
4.  Carbohydrate attacks after a big meal are to be taken seriously and deserve a good 2 hour recovery nap
5.  Laugh at your own jokes
6.  Err on the side of generosity
7.  Family comes first
8.  Real men kiss their son and sons-in-law
9.  Always carry winter boots and snow gear in your car boot even if snow hasn't quite stuck;  you just never know
10. When buying shoes, buy quality leather ones
11. Love a great bargain (e.g. Kirkland jeans)

I love my dad.  He is brave, he is loving and I will never grow too old for his sweet top of the head kisses.  

Read this little bit of lovely from Silt.   (L. M. Haukaas-Lopez is my sister, which means we have the same dad that this sweet memory is written about.)