Dad's Day

How was your Dad's Day?

For the first time in a very long time, I didn't have to cook or clean or cater to the kids. Jo and Al made me breakfast. We had my favorite, huckleberry pancakes. They ran the day's errands while I watered the garden. When Spence woke up, we went on a bike ride down to my coffee shop, Extracto and popped in for a pastry at Ville Velo Bakeshop. I had my usual, while my son had an iced latte. We arrived home a few minutes after the girls, then I opened my pile of presents - a new hot air popcorn maker, my favorite chocolate bars, some new artwork by Jo. The kids made a batch of fresh popcorn right away. Hot air popcorn tastes so much better than microwave. We'll never go back.

We decided to go on a big family bike ride across town, ending up at Tonalli's for double scoops all around. An ice cream lunch is the best way to end a bit of afternoon exercise!

Homemade quarter pound burgers on the grill turned out great. Fried onions and portobello mushrooms, cheddar and bacon toppings. Iceberg lettuce wedge topped with ranch dressing with a side of cucumber salad seasoned with rice vinegar. We were all so full, we ended up skipping dessert.

I had a really great Father's Day. I hope you and your family did too!

Like father, like son

My son Spencer has worked by my side for many years now. He helps me out a great deal, mainly at fundraisers, and my auction team loves having him around. It's great that he'll put on a suit and hang out with his dad! I have watched him mature and learn a bit about the business world, sharpen his social and life skills, as well as build his confidence. It's hard for me to believe that he'll be graduating from high school next year. Where does the time go?

I'm lucky that we have the chance to work together and that he actually enjoys it. It gives us an opportunity to spend more time together since fundraising events are often on weekends. That way, we don't feel like we're missing out too much on our family time. We probably have as much fun as the guests at these fundraising auctions. The energetic and exciting atmosphere of an auction can't be beat. Especially if the alternative is having my son sit in front of a television or computer screen for the night. Plus it's extra rewarding to be able to feel like you're contributing to a worthy cause; whether it be for bettering the greater good of the community, improving a kid's educational experience or raising funds and awareness towards battling a life-altering disease.

Thanks Spence! I'm so proud of you.