Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers out there. Surprise! This is not Tiffany. This is Tiffany’s Dad. I am also known as Michael’s Dad and many other “dad” names that I am proud to answer to. So how is it that “Tiffany’s Dad” is writing an article for a beauty and wellness blog? Well, I was invited to be a guest writer, via text message. Of course I said “Yes”, like a good Dad always does.

Being a father started over 32 years ago when my first biological child was born. Since that time, my wife and I have been blessed with not only a biological son but dozens if not hundreds of other wonderful young people that fondly call us “Mom” & “Dad”. As Tiffany wrote in her Mother’s Day post (click here to read) you can be a parent to people that are not your biological offspring. I am honored to be called “Dad” by many of our children’s friends. A few years ago, one of those ‘kids’, had twins. It was a very proud moment when they first called me Papa Joe!

There is a saying “Any man can be a father, it takes someone special to be a dad”, this is SO true! It is really cool being a dad, I love it. Since my kids were younger (yes all of them, not just the biological ones), I have shown them that I care deeply for them. They know that I will always be there for them. I tell them all the time, “I am just a text message away”. Now I have to say “I am a Snapchat, Facebook Message, (fill in the blank) away”. I am a 24/7 Dad.

Being a Dad is really cool, but being a cool Dad is harder. Do I wear socks with sandals? Not in public anymore. Is it still cool to wear wild colored floral print shirts? What’s that you say? “It was never cool to wear a floral print shirt”? EXCUSE me! And what about my fanny pack? Sometimes I have too much stuff for the pockets in these short shorts! See what I mean? It is not easy to be a Cool Dad!

The best part of being a dad is that you do not have to worry about being cool, up with the times, or even a snazzy dresser. All you have to do is be a dad. Being involved in all of my children’s lives keeps me young. I want to be around for a long time so I exercise, take care of myself, and watch my diet. Almost two years ago, I stopped eating desserts and have cut carbs to a minimum. My weight is lower and so is my A1C. The thing that I have discovered is that you can have a few carbs every now and then, it is all about being intentional and doing things in moderation.

So next time your dad shows up to brunch (or whatever the hot new thing is that you invite us to) wearing socks with sandals, or a floral print shirt, just know that he’s doing his best to be a Cool Dad. We will always be there to cheer you on and lift you up. Even if some of us can only be there in spirit or memory. We will always be your biggest fan. Even if you don’t always approve of our fashion choices.

If I did not mention four footed children, I would be leaving out my grandpups! Many of our kids have furry children, I am proud for them to call me PawPaw! Hmm would it be cool to patent that and sell t-shirts and pet bandanas? Maybe a PawPaw fanny pack for treats and toys!

In closing, I want to remind ALL children, your dad loves you. Whatever you call us – Dad, Daddy, Papa, Grandpa, G-Man, Pops, Dada, PawPaw, Gramps – it doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is that you call us.

Love you always,
Dad