Happy Fathers Day to the Daddy in Our World

“Dad, I loved when you helped me learn to ride my two-wheeler. I love when you help me when I’m sad… and when you let me go to the tot lot…”  Rachel, age 6

“My Dad, Jeffrey Knaub: I love you because you wrestle me… you help me roller blade… you help me up if I fall… you make me feel happy, loved, and excited… you let me eat potato chips…”  Clara, age 9

This Fathers Day, Jeff, I am especially grateful for who you are to our girls:

I remember the early days. You joined me as an equal in those blurry sleepless nights, swinging the carrier back and forth, back and forth, uttering “Sh, sh, sh…” You patted, rocked, fed, walked, bounced, hummed, swaddled, wiped, read, whispered, and loved the girls every step of the way.

You galloped both girls through the living room, neighing like a horse.

You installed baby gates and car seats, sanded the play set so they wouldn’t get splinters, replaced rotting wood, adjusted training wheels, tended to cuts and bruises, cleaned up vomit, lit candles during blackouts.

If the girls wanted “Mommy to read the book!” or “Mommy to do the nighttime cuddle!” you accepted and understood,– no pressuring or guilt-tripping, no withdrawing from them in hurt silence.

You helped Rachel fly her blue octopus kite and taught Clara to ride a wave with a boogie board.

You tried to cook their favorite Indian dish, and laughed along with them when it didn’t turn out quite like the restaurant’s tikka masala.

You chased them through the house, eager to cook some “fairy stew,” eliciting thrilled squeals– the terror and delight of being caught by Daddy!

You planned a birthday party for their puppy, complete with homemade doggy ice cream.

You teach them about flowers, call them over whenever you find an interesting insect for them to see, help them dig for worms, hang their painted bird houses.

You invite and respect their feelings.

With you as their Daddy, both girls know it’s okay to be sad. It’s okay to be scared. It’s okay to be angry. It’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to have some things that come easily for them and others that take a lot of work and time and patience.

You love them just as they are.

Happy Fathers Day.