This weekend and every day, we think of our fathers, Richard and Wil, and brother-in-law, Jerry, who aren’t with us anymore. We miss them so much, but they will always live in our hearts. And we celebrate the backpacker in the photo who loves his daughter and son and wife more than anything. He’s endured some bumps in the road but with us by his side for support, he feels like he’s won the lottery. Besides spending time with his family, he’d rather be hiking on a mountain, relaxing by a lake, or riding a motorcycle. His heart is kind and he tries to see the good in everyone. Even after 37 years, I still get lost in his blue eyes and can’t believe how lucky I am to share my life with him. ❤️

So, Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful dads around the globe who do their best to be the best for their children!

By the way, DNA doesn’t make a good father. Actions speak louder than words. A biological father who neglects his children isn’t a good dad. A great father is a man who is emotionally available and actively involved in his child’s life.

“The greatest gift a father could give to his children is his time.”

Enjoy your weekend and celebrations, and Thanks for stopping by! ❤️

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© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com

Lauren Scott is a 2025 Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry: New Day, New Dreams (2013), Finding a Balance (2015), Ever So Gently (2023), and King Copper (2025). In 2021, she released her memoir, More than Coffee. Her first children’s book, Cora’s Quest, was published in 2024. Lauren has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers Chapter of the California Writers Club, and her poem “Wings” was named Honorable Mention in their 2026 Smalls Too Poetry Contest. Lauren’s work is published in six anthologies. Her muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.