For as long as I can remember, Dad has never been one to show his emotions freely or to give excessive praise to his kids. He was from the school of hard knocks. His work ethic is beyond compare. Growing up, he drilled into our brains that school and education were the most important gifts he and my Mom could ever give us.

We were spoiled, but not materially. Dad wouldn't go out and buy us whatever we wanted whenever we wanted it. We had to earn things. I remember being 8 or 9 years old and really wanting a Cabbage Patch Kid. Well, in order for me to get a Cabbage Patch Kid, I had to get straight A's on my report card! I did get straight A's and I did get my Cabbage Patch Kid. At first, it seemed so cruel to have to work so hard for something that all my friends were getting without having to "earn". I was a bit upset, but I did learn the value of hard work and the prize was much sweeter in the end.

While Mom has always shown her love for us kids freely and openly, Dad was always more reserved. I do remember lots of tender moments like Dad bringing us trinkets from his business trips to Prague, Argentina, Hong Kong, etc. There was also the time I fell asleep on the couch at my folks' place and Dad put a blanket over me and gave me a good night hug.

Oh, and how could I forget the one Christmas when Dad gave me a compass as a Christmas gift because I was always getting lost (yes, I am still really bad with directions)! Dad is just really thoughtful and when he gives gifts they are always special...like the two pergolas he just finished building me yesterday.