1. Sundays are for football.
Ever since I was little, I grew up with the tradition that Sundays were meant for watching your football team, screaming at the television, and eating homemade wings with the fam.
2. How to appreciate Classic Rock.
The fact that my first concert was to RUSH says it all. I grew up learning how to play Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne on the guitar, listening to Pink Floyd in the car, and knowing the lyrics to just about all of the classics. I’d say I have a true appreciation for classic rock.
3. How to get somewhere "efficiently" when driving.
Patience is something we both lack, therefore driving behind those who, well let’s just say, like to take their time, doesn’t necessarily sit well with me. If I am driving I like to get there in a timely manner. I’m not saying I speed per say, I just know my way around and won’t hesitate to pass you!
4. How to sleep in, "When you wake up, go back to sleep."
One motto that was always repeating in my head as a kid was, “when you wake up, go back to sleep,” essentially just telling me not to wake you up as soon as the sun came up in the morning. Looking back I think that was more for your sake, but I’ll tell you something, I still follow it even now, and it’s a beautiful thing.
5. How to make a mean breakfast.
When it came to breakfast my dad was the one at the stove. Egg sandwiches, fried eggs, and omelets are just a few of his specialties. I definitely picked up on a few techniques, because I make a mean breakfast, if I don’t say so myself.
6. Scaring people can be a hobby and will always be funny.
As cruel as it was then, scaring me as a kid was an often occurrence. The words “can’t find me”, had me terrified to go upstairs after my father, because I knew no matter if I found his hiding place or not, I was going to be scared. Well let me tell you something, the thrill you get from scaring someone is pretty great, so no hard feelings dad, I get it now.
7. How to play street hockey.
Before our basement was finished, all we had were the cement floors and drywall to show for it. So grabbing old hockey sticks and putting a soccer goal up, and taking shots at the net were some of the best memories. Plus, when it came time for street hockey with the guys on the block, I held my own.
8. How to keep things light and to have a good sense of humor.
Growing up I noticed you were always the one in the room cracking jokes and making others laugh. You always have a good time even when you are going through something. You showed me that even if things aren't the greatest, putting a smile on your face and laughing can get you through it.
9. How to stay close to your childhood friends, even when you're spread all over the country.
The fact that you are still close with the guys that lived on your street as a kid is pretty crazy. I think it goes to show what a great friend you are and also the importance of sticking with your friends. I mean seriously you all didn't even have cell phones. There weren't many easy ways to stay connected for a while, that's pretty awesome.
10. How to be a pretty cool parent.
Thanks for being there for me no matter what growing up. Thanks for coaching my soccer teams for years and making it to my volleyball games and swim meets. Thanks for supporting me in everything I do. Thanks for making fun of me when I'm in the kitchen and when I have my blonde moments. Thanks for being the one that goes on roller coasters with me and the one who rides the waves at the beach. Thanks for the jokes and stupid funny jokes we only think are funny. Thanks for getting me into sports, especially hockey, and taking me to games every year.
Love ya, Dad.
