Happy Father’s Day, y’all.

Gunnar eagerly woke me up this morning with three cards in his hands. One was solely from him, one was from my family collectively, and the final was from my wife. I don’t need anything. Not really. I mean, there is always something that you could use or might be cool but is it necessary? The cards and the hugs were enough for me this morning.

The first bridge I worked on was the Brooklyn Bridge. I was grateful for the opportunity and still am, though as with any profession at times I have my gripes. When I was younger I hated heights and during my interview the obvious question was posed, “Do you like heights?” I lied, and said something dumb like, “Love them.” You get used to some things. I’m not trying to risk my life for anything. I’m careful. I have reason to be careful. Four very important reasons.

I brought my family to the Brooklyn Brooklyn this morning and we walked the promenade. I told my kids about John Augustus Roebling and his son, Washington. I told them how the bridge opened 140 years ago in 1883. I showed them where we hop up and walk the cables to the top of the towers to replace the flags, or to lower them or raise them back up. It is the only bridge in NYC that flies the flag, one on each tower. It was nice to hang and do touristy things in our own city.

I think most people neglect the cool or interesting things that their hometowns have to offer. We take things for granted. That is a human trait. You have to put in the effort to learn new things sometimes. And there is always something to learn, especially in a place like New York City.

We followed up our exploration of my favorite bridge with lunch at Peter Pan in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The kids couldn’t wait to crush their revered doughnuts, but the kids had to finish their sandwich first. Now we’re home, and the girls are on devices in princess dresses, Gunnar is watching He-Man dressed as Optimus Prime, and dinner is cooking and my Peroni is cold. A wonderful low-key relaxing afternoon is exactly what I wanted. I hope all the good dads out there are enjoying their day as well. Sláinte.

-SG