For our Dads

We are wrapping up our time in Europe and have lots to post about. But for now, this one goes out to our Dads! Because really, who, in their right minds, supports their grown children quitting their jobs to travel around Europe? These guys. And who’s been the ones telling us to enjoy where we are and that we’ll figure everything else out when we get home? These guys. We may be adults (whatever that means), but we’ll always be looking for our Dads’ validation, support, and guidance. After all, they have all the answers! Happy Father's Day!

What is the greatest lesson we’ve learned from our Dad?

Mike: Hard work pays off.

Anna: The beauty in the simplicity of life.

What is our favorite activity to do with our Dad?

Mike: Going out on the boat.

Anna: Watch football. Talk football.

How would we describe our Dad in one word?

Mike: Organized.

Anna: Generous.

How are we most like our Dad?

Mike: My excitement for food.

Anna: I need a clean space, cannot handle messy.

What do we love most about our Dad?

Mike: He has taken us around the world. His passion for travel has rubbed off on me (hence the European tour). During Anna and my trip abroad, we have seen so many families on vacation and it’s not always smiles and laughter. Kids are tough. When you are young, it is hard to appreciate how much time, effort, and energy it takes to plan a trip. I am guilty of being one of those kids and despite the amount of grief I may have caused, a family vacation to some place new was always on the horizon. I hope to keep and share that tradition with my kids—I am forever grateful.

Anna: He’s always been so involved in our lives. When I was younger, he was my softball coach, basketball coach, soccer coach. When I started playing travel sports, he was at every game. He made it to every swim meet, every volleyball game, every basketball game. Even though my position was on the bench during varsity basketball, he would still be there. An hour away. On a week night. When he works 6 days a week. It didn’t matter—he always showed up. Still does.

And what do we love most about each other’s Dads?

Mike: Perspective on life and work life balance. Work hard, play hard. Tony is an extremely hard worker and when he is not at work, he is doing what he loves, whether that’s playing with the dogs, reading a book by the pool, or taking a catnap on the hammock. In the 8(ish) years I have been dating Annaliese, I don’t think Tony has brought “the job” home with him, which is extremely hard not to do.

Anna: I see so much of Mike in his dad- so there’s lots to love! Mr. Fodera has always treated me like a daughter, greeting me with a big smile and a hug. He is always inquiring about life, jokes with me, laughs with (or at) me, and isn’t afraid to give me a hard time. Which, is totally fine, because I am sure I give it right back to him!

It’s very simple: We love ya.

XO,

Your favorite children