Father's Day

Today is a...different kind of day for me because I've had a different life than most people.

I'm not saying that most people grow up with a wonderful biological father in their home but my situation is pretty unique. Before I met Doug, there were two men who I had called "Dad". I was younger and oblivious to most of what was happening around me. 

I'm pointing this out only because my post is about the difference between a father and a dad. I don't want anyone to be confused by the fact that I don't call Doug "dad" to his face. I refer to him as my dad to others, but I think he deserves much more than the same name I used for two not so great men. That's all I'll say about that.

I know I had to wait 12 years for my dad, but it was well worth the wait. Doug is the peanut butter to my jelly. It is weird how alike we are. I know I'm not biologically his but I am spiritually his. He accepted me from the beginning and is the one person who helped me move on to accepting myself.

Today is father's day and I am happy for everyone who has a good relationship with their father. Unfortunately, my biological father is pretty much a disgusting human being. Even though I am not legally his daughter, he will forever be my biological father and that sucks. I am very jealous of Emmitt. His father is a great man and a spectacular father. I see so much of him in Emmitt and I honestly can't wait to see him with our kids when we have them. His dad has taught him so much and introduced him to his true love: fishing. They have a great bond and I'm excited to see the bond my kiddos will get with their father. I know they'll have a great one.

For the past few years I've called today "Dad's Day" and I'm going to again this year. Any man with a child is  a father, that takes no more than a few minutes of work. A dad puts work into his relationship with his child/children. He takes you to get ice cream when you're sad..he helps you buy your first car..he's there to crack jokes when you're in a bad mood...Doug is my dad. He's so much more than a father and I feel so lucky. I know my mom wishes things were different sometimes but I wouldn't change any of the bad times before we found Doug because without them, we might not have found him. 

Doug is not just my dad. He's one of my best friends. Even though he's four hours away, I'm glad he's so close. I may not be so lucky much longer. My parents are my world and I know no matter the distance, we'll still keep our great relationships. Without my mom, we would never have Doug so to both my parents and to all of you: Happy Dad's Day.