A Father's Day poem for paddlers

To all of you dadswho would rather be paddlingthan opening giftsamid family prattling.
To all of you dads,be you homely or dashing,who want to get outon waves cresting and crashing.
I hear you, I get it.I feel the same way.But I think you should hangwith your family today.
(Unless, of course,your kids paddle, too.In that case, get out!This poem’s not for you.)
Think for a momentof all they have doneto allow you to paddleand have so much fun.
They put up with your gearhanging in the back yard.They tolerate neoprene stink--and that’s hard!
They squeeze past your kayakto get to the car.They don’t laugh aloudwhen you say “pub” not “bar.”
They let you buy rescue knives,tow belts and flares,and assemble your kitsfor first aid and repairs.
They know all the acronyms:CLAP, PFDBCU, ACAVHF, LTPD.
They deal with the sandand the water and dirt.They’re even OKwith you wearing a skirt.
So stay home and celebratefamily today.Hang out with your kids.Hear what they say.
For despite your addictionto paddling, it seems,your children still love you.You’re the dad of their dreams.
--Sharon