FATHER'S DAY

I used to wonder about Father's Day. It was always low key which I think it should be compared to Mother' s Day which is a celebration. There was not very much in Church about it. In the not too distant past, Mother's Day was a big celebration with flowers for all mothers. In our ward in Bloomfield Hills, MI they even had prizes for various categories; youngest mother, mother with lots of kids; there was always some balking at the "Oldest Mother". But there was always a great Primary Program with songs and little talks by the kids.

Father's Day was always a little more low key which is appropriate, The Primary still gets up and sings, "I'm So Glad When Daddy Comes Home" and that brings a smile.

Yesterday, I was with Cheryl and her family. The photo shows Cheryl, little Johnny, Annabelle, Paul, Mary Clare, Madeline (who is now driving), Opa with Emily Eva and Olivia, Paul and Loren. It reminded me of days past with our little kids on our laps. It was a great time with Cheryl's gang.

I remember my Father who did more to shape my life and its direction. I used to carry his Doctor bag around when I was two and there was never much doubt in what direction I would plan a career. We had psychiatric interviews when I went t Harvard Med School and we discussed our parents. He said, "You identify with your Father a lot!" I asked, "Is there anyone else better I should identify with?"

Sons do not always agree with Fathers but I always wanted to be like my Father. He was always a great example and rock solid. He loved his Church callings and did volunteer work as well while he was in practice. I am not sure he understood how much he influenced my life but at these low key Father's Days, I do remember my Father and all he tried to teach me.

Well we are getting more excited by the minute as we get ready for the reunion. Mom had the upstairs painted. It looks great! Emily and her kids came up and helped Mom organize the downstairs. People will start arriving next week. Activities will include a get together at Cheryl's on Thursday night. More people will be coming in. Friday morning is free but Mom will get the final word out. Friday Afternoon there is a Temple Session in the Salt Lake Temple and Friday early evening is the Parents Dinner for the immediate family with spouses at the Lion House. Am not sure about Saturday but there will be a big Park activity at Bywater Park behnd Doug's house, crowned with a dinner for the entire family (104) at the Joseph Smith building that Rob and everyone has been carefully planning. There will be a family photo there as well at 5:00 PM in the Empire room. Sunday for those who are still here will be Church, Dinner and FHE at our house. I'll crank up the smoker! Monday some of us will go up to Bear Lake. We are so excited to see everyone together again.

Love, Dad