Never Too Old to Look Up to Dad
Can it be June already? Those little ones that seemed too tiny to begin school back in September already have a year under their belt! They’ve made friends, made art projects, made decisions on their own. And now it’s time to be thinking about summer vacation. As a parent, I still feel the excitement of those last days of school, even though it’s a challenge to keep everyone happy, amused and cared for during the summer months.
We’re here to help your family love those lazy, hazy days of summer! Read “3 Tips to Make the Most of Summer” on page 10. My favourite tip is leaving time for unstructured play. I adore sitting back and watching what a little one can do with mud, a stick or a cardboard box. If you’re looking for some family time, check out Are We There Yet (p. 15) for information on Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The kids will especially love the loud bang at the musket-firing demonstration. We’re also, of course, celebrating dads this month! And this favourite quote from Pam Brown says it all. “Dads are the most ordinary men turned by love into heroes, adventurers, story-tellers and singers of song.”
Hooray to those committed, modern-day, actively involved dads we celebrate in Frankly Fatherhood on page 12. However, we would like to see you men taking care of yourselves, and Dr. Bhooma Bhayana warns that we’re not seeing enough of some of you in doctor’s offices. So guys, don’t be reluctant to visit your family doctor for check-ups or help, and don’t be reluctant to read Dr. Bhayana’s article on page 6.
One of our Mom & Caregiver family members mentioned that childhood memories with her dad were playing basketball, bike riding and baseball. Lots of sports! But her Dad also took the time to mention how pretty she looked when she dressed up for church, and taught her a girl can be anything and everything all at once. We still look up to you, Dads, no matter how old we get, and we thank you.
On a personal note: Hi Daddy, I love you and miss you, and on this Father’s Day my soul and spirit reach out to you. Although you are gone, you are never forgotten.
Sabina Manji, a lifelong Londoner, is an irrepressible entrepreneur, mother of a wonderful son, and also a committed volunteer.
