Happy Father's Day

Fathers can shape their kids’ lives in powerful ways—through love, steady support, and the everyday lessons that stick forever. I light up when I see dads fully engaged with their children.

One of the simplest, most meaningful places families bond is around the table. Sharing dinner, diving into board games, trading jokes, and laughing until your sides ache—those moments matter. So do the deeper conversations, and the spontaneous chats that pop up out of nowhere. They build trust, open communication, and confidence, weaving stronger relationships over time. Lately, I’ve been reminded of this through a few sweet examples of father figures.

This morning at church, our pastor handed out little Father’s Day gifts for fun “categories”: the oldest dad, the dad with the youngest baby, and the dad with the most kids present. It happens every year for both moms and dads, and it’s always charming—especially when the men blush at the attention. This time, the dad with the most kids had ten—yes, ten! —the oldest dad was 92, and the youngest baby in the room was just five weeks old. It’s such a joyful tradition.

A few weeks ago, my husband and I stayed at a hotel in Champaign, Illinois during a cross-country trip. At breakfast, a brother and sister sat behind us with their grandparents, chattering happily about the “super comfy” hotel bed and their plans for the day. Not a cell phone in sight. On that rainy morning, they plotted out shopping for her and a movie for him—why not both? Their easy joy took me back to my own days as a young mom, and to memories with my grandparents. Families take many forms, and sometimes grandparents are the daily parent figures, offering that same steadfast love.

Closer to home, I had breakfast with my dad in Las Vegas just before Father’s Day while we were in town for a family wedding. No matter how much time we spend together, I always learn something new. We swapped stories, laughed over photos, and enjoyed a wonderful meal. I feel incredibly lucky to still have my dad—81 years old and still active playing the guitar, teaching water class, traveling around the world and cooking.

And I have to give a BIG shout out to my husband, who’s been a constant presence for our daughters. Raising three girls (plus a female Labrador) isn’t always easy, but even outnumbered, I think he secretly loves it. He has provided everything that matters. Love, support, advice, the importance of faith and so much more. I picked a good one!

I also know not everyone has a dad in their life. Families vary, and sometimes a grandfather, uncle, teacher, coach, or neighbor steps into that role. Their wisdom and encouragement can be just as formative, proving that the heart of fatherhood shows up in many forms.

If your father is no longer here, my heart is with you. If you’ve lost touch or never met, the ache can be real—sadness, longing, complicated questions. Those feelings are valid. Leaning on supportive family and friends can help, and so can recognizing that the love and guidance of any caring father figure—biological or not—can echo through a lifetime. Surround yourself with positive influences and nurturing relationships. The legacy of love continues through fathers, grandfathers, brothers, uncles, coaches, mentors—every steady, caring presence who shows up.

Happy Father's Day to my dad, my husband, and to all the men who show up for families, friends, and their communities. I hope you'll enjoy the rest of June recognizing the special people in your life.

-Angela