This is a holiday worth celebrating with a parade.

Kristina had snuck out earlier and now pounced on me with a card, and one for Chaz. I gave him a hug in cross-generational solidarity.

My card began with the truth I choose to find comforting: “Like Father, like Daughter.”

The picture had a landscape painting hanging on the wall, a banner “#1 Dad,” a potted climbing plant on a supporting pole, and books on a shelf.

How did the card makers know?

The clever inside began with a banner, “Dad,” which Kristina emended to Daddy!

Then the message:

When people say
I remind them of you,
I always take that
as a compliment.

I’m proud to think some
of the best parts of me
come from you.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

Then hand-written “I love you, Daddy! Tons!” and a drawn heart with an x kiss at the center, signed –Kristina

Then we hugged, as we always do, and she repeated the message, “Like Father, like Daughter,” as she towered over me.