Father's Day 2025

Father’s Day weekend on the farm was full of farmers markets, ballgames, sunshine, farm chores and family. In the midst of busy schedules, around half of the family met up at church, and made an impromptu choice to snag some lunch at the local brewery in Paw Paw, MI.  

During lunch I was reminded of how blessed I am to be surrounded by good men. My nephew (26) sat crosswise surrounded by kiddos. My husband (35) sat to my left, my brother (48) perched at my right, and my father (70) faced me as he bellied up to the small square table separating us.  All four men are strong in stature, stand firm in beliefs, and speak wisdom beyond their years. 

The farm shapes each and every one of them, and continues to do so through each stage of their lives. How incredible I feel to be able to have a relationship with all perspectives, to be able to absorb insight, and observe their supportive character.    

Living on a farm teaches them how to move through adversity, and fix problems quickly.  Living on a farm gives them a way of life to share with others; it allows them to teach without a word. It forces strength and vulnerability, makes them practice failure, and work effectively with others. 

One of the fondest attributes all four men carry is their ability to build connections.  I can’t help but recognize the farm as their stage – a vehicle that fosters relationships.  Growing up, I have vivid memories sitting next to a pick-up truck, waiting for my Dad to finish talking with the neighbor farmer.  Sometimes we’d have multiple visits in one day.  Dad would chat longer than it took us to move an entire group of pigs back to the woods. He always had the time, even though there weren’t enough hours in the day.  The gift to carry on meaningful conversations is so refreshing, and each man at that table carries their own unique story to tell, and a heart to listen. 

Although lunch was short and sweet, our family’s’ appreciation for the fathers in our lives runs deep.  After finishing our chicken tacos, and mushroom burgers, we headed towards the door - not reaching it before an old friend was recognized, which created another chat to wait through, and another blessing to acknowledge.