Dear Kids,
It's almost Father's Day. Once again, other than Heather Reisman's intelligent reading suggestions, the majority of radio and television ads are recommending you buy me a power tool as a way of thanking me for being your dad.
You may have overheard a recent Canadian Tire ad on the radio, suggesting your hugs may be fine, but that they certainly don't compare to a brand new power tool.
I know you know better, but part of being a father is making sure you don't receive mixed signals, especially concerning my feelings towards you, or my priorities as a dad.
I will never choose a reciprocating saw over one of your hugs; especially those special ones when you push me backwards onto the carpet in the den and bury your face in my neck while you're giggling.
I love those.
Don't ever bury a reciprocating saw in my neck, please.
Perhaps the ad could have said: "We know your dad loves hugs; but he'd probably also love a belt sander!" But that would stray from the usual corporate Father's Day pattern of focusing on my janitorial skills, rather than those I've honed as a parent.
Canadian Tire Father's Day Sale items
In what is becoming an annual tradition, I want to reassure you the way to my heart is not with a circular saw.
I do love power tools, but not more than hugs.
The way to my heart is you.
The right tools just get the job done faster, and allow be to be with you that much quicker.
Love,
Dad.