As the first day of summer draws near, I watch the rain bearing down on my window. Long, lazy days covered with green grass, backyard bar-b-que’s, the sweet taste of watermelon, golden corn from the garden, parades, fireworks, and gathering with family and friends are treasured memories that I cherish from a childhood spent in Ohio.
Many a summer day was spent with my Father. Under his instruction, my brother and I were taught to make and fly our own kites, carefully crafted at the kitchen table using nylon, sticks, and string. Dad also took us fishing at a local pond. We bought tackle boxes, rods, reels, and selected feathery lures that would catch us the big one! On other days, he drove us to the park with our dog, Curlie, who happily lapped up the fresh air as he pushed his wet nose out of the car’s window. We hiked, watched Curlie run wild through the woods, and swung high on the playground swings. Summer reading was always encouraged by my Father. We would peruse the local library for popular children’s books and bedtime stories for kids. One of my favorite bedtime storybooks was “The Cat in the Hat,” by Dr. Seuss. I begged my Father to read it to me over and over as I drifted off to sleep. To this day, I continue to love Dr. Seuss and cats.
In 2024, the Father’s Day holiday falls on Sunday, June 16th. Although my father passed away many years ago, the fond memories of shared moments with him forever remain in my heart. As time rushes forward and we consume ourselves with busyness, be sure to pause and spend some quality time honoring your Father, Stepfather, Grandfather, parent or role model that makes a difference in your world.
Reading a book together is one of the many Father’s Day activities that can be fun for the whole family! Make breakfast and read a book in bed, pack a picnic lunch and read a book at the beach, or drink cold lemonade and share a bestseller kids book at your local pool. You’ll want to choose the best kids book by considering the age of your child and his or her interests. For example, if your children love cats, there are several children’s cat books to enjoy. If you want to teach your kids more about a popular theme or characteristic such as kindness, you can search Amazon, Target, Walmart, or other on-line sources for children’s books about kindness.
One children’s storybook that I hope you will read to your kids on Father’s Day is, Kyndleigh and Bamboo: Who Rescues Who? It’s a children’s hardcover book featuring a little girl named Kyndleigh and her cuddly new friend, Bamboo the cat. Join them on a magical journey as they learn about hope, friendship, and kindness to all, whatever their age or color, big or small. And with that said, I’m wishing a Happy Father’s Day to all! Written by Dr. Deborah Radzwill, author-illustrator of Kyndleigh and Bamboo: Who Rescues Who? For more kindness adventures with Kyndleigh and Bamboo, visit kyndleigh.com.
