Father's Day

This was Gaetan's first triple father's day.  And yes, we both agree that Father's Day, Mother's Day, Sweetest Day, heck Valentine's Day are Hallmark Holidays designed for people to buy stupid cards and an excuse for that person (be it Mother or Father) to have something special but I think I would like to give an extra shout out to the Father's I know.  It's nice that he does feel that way though because with three small children and not feeling well, this Father's Day wasn't going to be the most exciting... so hopefully when he feels a little better we can have a date night or something together.  :)

Dude gave him his Hippo to sleep with because he knew Papa wasn't feeling well

First.  Papa.  Yes, he is amazing.  We all know that.  In fact, he just fixed my vacuum today, which was starting to make me a little cranky (the fact that it didn't work).  Anyhoo, he really is.  They say you marry somebody who reminds you of your Father (in my case) and I think that is true.  Gaetan isn't as passive aggressive as my Dad, or he doesn't bend over backwards to keep the peace, but I can say with certainty and without a doubt that both of them love their kids.  I can't think of anybody else that our kids would rather spend time with than their Papa.  And obviously I think he's a good Papa or else I wouldn't have had so many kids with him!  I can truly see that he takes delight and joy in being around our kids and raising them the way they should be.  :)

My Dad sang Norah to sleep... sitting up. haha

Second.  My Dad.  The one thing that stuck with me about my Dad is growing up I never heard him speak an ill word against or about my Mom... and as a girl growing up around that made a huge difference.  I knew I didn't have to settle, nor should I.  He was always the one I could go talk to, even about odd stuff and I knew I'd get an answer that was grounded.  I love that I can bring my kids around him and know that he bestows his silly, fun loving behavior on them but at the same time makes sure that they are obedient and listen as well.  I am happy that my kids are able to spend time with them so regularly because that means I get to too!

Last.  Our Heavenly Father.  For me that image of God was always an easy one to make because I loved my earthly father and held him in such high respect.  But, I know that is not the case for others in the world.  I mean, I'm married to a guy whose Dad is a real dink.  But, I hope that our kids can view God with that same image of a loving, compassionate Father who loves His children, as their earthly parents love them.

So, to all those Papa's out there... we do celebrate you and all that you do for us.  I hope that I celebrate Gaetan more often than just once a year, and I hope that he knows that we love him dearly and appreciate all he does, and continues to do for this family.  We love you Papa.