Happy Father's Day, Mr. Byrd

It’s a natural thing for dads to love their sons; a chosen thing for a step-dad.
There is no way to measure the value of what you brought to the life of a boy,
Even now a grown man.

But here are a few things that come to mind, of things for which I am grateful.
You taught him to fish, to hunt, to appreciate mountain streams and nature.
And to build a campfire.

You taught him to laugh and enjoy life even when times were difficult and sad.
To find joy in small things like the love and the faithfulness of an old dog,
Westerns and war movies.

You’ve shown its okay for men to wash not only the car but to help with the dishes.
That there is an art to changing oil, fixing flats, and looking under the hood.
And doing the yard work.

You were instrumental in creating fond memories of boating and water skiing.
Warm summer days on the Ohio River and on the island before the tourists came.
Roasting yummy hot dogs.

Thank you for helping to mold my husband into the wonderful man that he is.
And for being a fun-loving grandpa to our children and a beloved father-in-law to me.
And for loving your wife!

Have a Wonderful Father’s Day, Tever! We love and miss you!

PS And thanks for the endless trips you make to the airport to pick us up and drop us off.