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If you know my Dad, you don’t really need an explanation for the title. ’nuff said. I was going to wait until Father’s Day to write this, but Dad just had hip replacement surgery and might be feeling discouraged because he can’t leap over tall buildings right now (at least in a single bound). We know you will be able to soon, Dad, because of who you are.

The picture shown is when my Dad was in the Army–he put himself through college through being in the ROTC. See the way my Mom’s looking at him, with love and admiration? Says it all. My Dad’s father spent time in Metropolis, Illinois, which is fitting, because my Dad really >is< Superman. Here are some of the amazing things he’s taught me, and continues to teach me.

1. Family comes first. Our family, like many others, has had its share of struggles, and we have stayed strong as a family through many ups and downs. This is because of Dad’s strength and the fact that he always put family first. Dad, I wouldn’t be where I am, happy and successful, if you hadn’t continually put us first in your life, and I hope you know that.

2. You can do anything, really. You may know that Dad built two of the houses we lived in, meanwhile supporting five kids. My Dad can build and do anything, I’m not kidding. We never hired a plumber, electrician, etc. that I can remember. I don’t think that any of us are as handy as he is–he always leaves us ‘gifts’ in our own houses that we are very grateful for. It really taught me a self-sufficiency that I’m sure has shaped me in many ways.

3. Find humor in all things. Dad has a spectacular sense of humor. He always keeps us on our toes with a quick wit. Laugh a lot and often, and it’s OK to recycle jokes if they’re good. (Side joke to sister Suzy: ‘Funny part’s when I fall!’)

4. Don’t ever cut across parking lots. It’s a good way to get into an accident! (OK, I don’t always follow this one, or his rule ‘Don’t do home improvement projects without shoes on’).

5. It’s OK to be sensitive. Dad probably doesn’t remember this, but I do. One day in church shortly after a family friend had died (Betty McIlnay, she had debilitating arthritis) the pastor announced it and I could tell my Dad was trying not to choke up. That little act made an impression on me. Dad is very sensitive and so am I, and it’s OK to be that way. Heaven help the person who wants either of us to do a eulogy!

6. Take care of your money, and it will take care of you. OK, this one I’m still trying to learn. I don’t know how Mom & Dad raised 5 kids on a single salary, and we still always seemed to live comfortably.

7. Clean your plate and don’t complain. Dad will eat just about anything (exception: yogurt). Mom’s a great cook, but over the years we’ve had a few culinary mishaps. The famous story is that when we were vacationing in Florida, he gladly ate spaghetti made with rubbing alcohol (don’t ask). Anyway, even though I don’t eat meat which can be a problem when people have me over for dinner, the sentiment should remain…be grateful for the food you have and the hospitality of the cook.

8. Find music you enjoy, and enjoy it. Dad loves bluegrass music. Although our musical tastes mostly differ, we have found some commonalities (and yes, I did have a ‘country’ phase). I saw the joy that music brought to my Dad and I’m sure it helped me to find my own taste in music. (Dad, I can’t wait to take you to the “Bluegrass brunch” we have at a local restaurant when you visit next).

9. Work to live, not vice versa. Dad worked a good job with reasonable hours, and we had dinner together every night at 5 p.m. I’m sure this was important in keeping our family strong. Goes along with #1.

10.  There is no other friend like Man’s Best Friend. Dad loves his dogs. From Edith (RIP), to Spike, to his kids’ dogs Oscar (RIP), Roger and Daphne, he takes excellent care of them all, and they all love him almost too much. I’m sure Spike is anxiously awaiting Dad’s recovery so they can enjoy their walks together again.

In summary, Dad, you’ve made it your top priority to take good care your family in every way, and taught us how to enjoy life and be successful, and you should be as proud of this as any of your other accomplishments. I think I can speak for all of us in the family in saying that you are our Superman. We love you very much and can’t wait for you to recover so that you can do all the things you enjoy. Does this mean you’ll be able to climb ladders again? I’ve got some roof work that needs to be done…lol…