Hey Dad, Happy Fathers Day!

I just wanted to wish you a Happy Father’s Day, and I hope you have a great one! I also wanted to thank you for being such a wonderful dad. I couldn’t imagine anyone else as my father. I am so grateful for your example and encouragement despite my best efforts to try your patience. Remember the time I hit that classic 1966 Ford Mustang with the family van? You didn’t even get angry with me. In fact, you kind of laughed it off and said something to the effect of; “that’s what insurance is for.” Mostly, I am grateful for your love, support, your calming influence and your positive attitude. These have helped me through my life and have made me a better person.

So I was trying to think of what I could give you for Father’s Day. I know you are still recovering from your surgery (my dad is recovering from quadruple bypass surgery which he had about 6 weeks ago for those who don’t know) so I decided to dedicate my first triathlon of this season to you. If you look closely in the picture you will see “Go Dad” written on my arm. Granted my race took less than three hours and you have at least three more months of recovery. I thought of you often during the race, especially as my legs were burning on the first climb or when I wanted to stop running. I thought how difficult your surgery and recovery have been which gave me motivation to keep going.

"Go Dad"! Post triathlon picture

Dad, the older I get the more I appreciate you and want to be like you (minus the quadruple bypass:)). Because of you I want to be a father. It is something I am looking forward to. I hope I can be the kind of father to my children that you have been to me.

Love ya’ Dad,

Mike

NYC and the In-laws

Several weeks ago, Kisti and I, along with some of our friends went to NYC. The weather was perfect and we took advantage of this by walking through Central Park. We were able to attend the Guggenheim Museum where they had a fascinating display from the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. I loved seeing his many designs and interesting take on architecture. We also walked across the Brooklyn Bridge and visited the World Trade Center Site. During the late afternoon, Kisti and I visited the Manhattan Temple while our friends went to mass. The temple was beautiful and we had a wonderful time.

Kisti with our friends Paul and Andrea, trying to figure out which subway to catch

The iconic Guggenheim.

We had to stop here! I had an awesome slice of bacon pizza.

Look closely, Mike and Kisti 4 ever!:) Brooklyn Bridge

The Manhattan Temple

I also wanted to write a quick comment about two people who have had a profound impact on my life, albeit indirectly. Ried and Gloria Pope are my in-laws and I must admit that I was a bit apprehensive to meet them. (I am sure most people feel like this) After I meet them, I realized that I had no reason to be nervous about them, they are wonderful people. More importantly, I have them to thank for raising such a wonderful daughter. I see their influence on Kisti from her drive to be the best doctor possible, to her desire to lead a healthy lifestyle, her relentless work ethic and her mental toughness. They truly are amazing, I (we) appreciate all of their unconditional love and support.

Kisti with her parents, Ried and Gloria.