I stared at a blank screen for about 10 minutes. Thinking of Father’s Day and how unbelievably lucky I am to have such an incredible father for my children. I realize what a very special man my husband  is and how he never lets anything stand in the way of his truly unselfish parenting.

My husband is as strong as a rock, never falters, always steady and honest. He is the most hardworking dedicated father I have ever known: Never thinking about himself, only his children and his wife. I never could imagine such strength yet such a gentle kind soul to be part of one person.

For fathers I think some things are more difficult then for moms. It’s not easy for them to accept. My son Joey’s autism has been especially difficult for my husband. He wants to fix it, that’s what dads do, they fix things and make it right. And with Joey it’s not that easy. My husband has a hard time watching his child struggle. His heart breaks, and mourns for the loss of a typical child, but always with the appreciation of the beautiful boy we do have. I remember one day he looked at me and said, Phyllis we were robbed and so was Joey. And we were, of normalcy and typical dreams. It’s hard for him. And when you look very close into my husband’s eyes you see the pain that he carries with him all the time. He has a heavy heart. And I hate that I can’t take that away from him.

In spite of all the pain and tribulations, my husband is the funniest man I know. Full of smart, quick remarks that have us both laughing many times. And after 24 1/2 years of marriage I must admit, I can’t wait till he comes home from work at night. Every night I am thankful and happy as I hear the door open and him yell, I’m home.

Nick is the proudest father and the most giving. He never wants anything other than for his children to have all they need and then some. He wants them to want for nothing, as he puts it, and has sacrificed often to do so.

My children adore him and even though Joey only has about 10 words….every night after his shower he starts … da da da ... I say yes, soon.  And Joey waits, sometimes falling asleep but I can tell always happy when thinking of  his Dad.

My older, typical son, Nick, is 16 and so independent. But he is thrilled to share any time he can with his dad, who is his teacher and his inspiration.

The most moral person I know, I often tease him and say.. If I hug you too tight it hurts because you’re so square. He’s my line in the sand when I go too far. And I admire his loyalty.

So, to my favorite DAD the man who honestly deserves every Father’s Day award there is. My husband, my friend, I give you my heart and soul. And know I am the luckiest girl in the world  to be able to share my greatest gift with you — my children.

Happy Father’s Day!