The title of this post is kind of how my life has been feeling this last week or two. We’ve been dealing with some illness: colds, ear infection, eye infection. Nothing too serious, just frustrating. And I just feel like I’m running around never quite caught up on anything.

Welcome to motherhood, eh?

Anyway, this is supposed to be a Father’s Day post, so enough about me.

[Part of the reason this post is late is because the words have been failing me. So here’s my best attempt. Most definitely at least a dollar short.]

My father is one of my inspirations. He’s clever, creative, and empathetic. He shared with me his love of words. I will be forever grateful for his example and his love. He’s set a high standard that I hope to one day meet.

My grandfather was a strong, kind, hard-working man. I feel his absence often, but I also feel his presence in my mid-afternoon cookie cravings and over a good cup of coffee. He would have loved to meet my son.

My father-in-law is one of the hardest-working men I’ve ever known. A man who started a business and watched it grow into one of the most respected towing companies in town. He doesn’t think twice about doing what needs doing. But there’s a kind and playful heart behind the toughness. I’m honored to have joined your family.

My grandfathers-in-law: both pillars of their families. The successes of their children and grandchildren speak highly of their character. One, a man gone too soon, and missed especially for his sense of humor. The other, working tirelessly in an unforgiving profession to feed this country. I’m proud to have known you.

My husband. What an honor to see this man become a father. [This is where the words fail me most.] His strength, humor, love, and faith will continue to shape our family. I’m thrilled to share my life with him.

***

I think it’s worth commenting here how composing this tribute has shifted my mood. I’m reminded of the old hymn Count Your Blessings:

Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,

And you will keep singing as the days go by.

My blessings are many, and just reminding myself of the ones limited to the influence of fatherhood in my life has lightened my spirit.

So maybe I’m still a day late, but I’m not short of anything.

***

Tell me about a father in your life.