Over the past week I had the opportunity to go on a family vacation to the Outer Banks to enjoy the sun, beaches and great food. I stuck close to my dad, for I have always considered myself a "daddy’s girl." I used this one-on-one time with him to reflect on everything that makes him the man he is, and what I have learned through him simply being his goofy, unapologetic self. So here’s to you, Dad, for doing a great job these past 19 years.
1. It is okay to say no.
Perhaps one of my favorite things I have learned from him was one commonly rehearsed to me growing up: that it is okay to say no to anything you don’t necessarily want to do. While there are exceptions, one must not sweat the small things. Life is too short to be stuck doing everything you’re asked to do. You have a choice.
2. Find comfort in your everyday life.
My dad is a man who has had the same wardrobe since 1990. In fact, this past week he was mildly depressed over the fact that the sunglasses he’s worn for over 20 years finally saw their last days and cracked (R.I.P to those outdated Oakley’s). He quite literally found comfort in the comfort of his wardrobe. His days were made easier by being comfortable day-to-day. If you can find one thing that gives you rhythm or reassurance to each day you’ll be much more relaxed and happier with life.
3. Seek Adventure.
As important as it is to find comfort in your everyday life, it is equally important to constantly seek adventure. I grew up hearing his stories of when he ran marathons, hiked the Grand Canyon, and all of his childhood trips to Florida. He now continues to travel with his job, feeding his craving to seek new adventures. This has quality has made him more interesting and less fearful
4. It’s okay to splurge every once in a while.
At the moment, I never thought the expensive speakers or overpriced winter coat were worth it. But looking back at how happy he was when he got his stupid little package, or the pure excitement he gets whenever someone inquires about his latest splurge makes it an acceptable lesson. Basically, if you worked hard for it, you probably deserve it.
5. Do your research.
This goes along with splurging every once in a while. The man does his research on everything. Anything related to Vitamix? Yup. Exactly how, why, where and what some pair of shoes are made of? You bet. Him and his iPad are a force to be reckoned with. While it’s humorous to see what his latest Google search is, he has been and will always be a well-informed man due to his curious inclination.
6. Eat Well.
My father is the best cook I know, hands down. He is known around town for his pizza, pasta, wings, and especially anything that can be placed on the grill. I’ve been extremely lucky to sit at his table each night and be served up something equally or more delicious as the night before. It’s important to know great food; it creates great memories and experiences.
7. Be Free.
My dad is known for wearing sandals year round, letting his toes free to face all kinds of weather. Metaphorically speaking, we should all strive to be as free as his toes. Yes, it sounds ridiculous at first, but really, it is quite a pleasant way to go about life. Embrace your inner free spirit, be free of all the stresses of the world, and try to live free and simply.
8. The importance of education.
My dad has always cared about what I was learning in school and was always concerned whether or not I fully understood it and how interested I was in the subject. By sharing his concern and curiosity with me about education, I began to be more appreciative for my own education. He valued his education and continues to learn each and every day.
9. Live a life full of laughter.
The most important thing I have learned from my father is to live a life full of laughter. Without a doubt, he is the absolute goofiest man ever. He’s been putting a smile on my face since 1995. While at times his jokes have been embarrassing, I’ve come to appreciate him and his unique sense of humor. In the end, it’s those good laughs that I’m going to remember because they’ve gotten me through each and every day.
