Everybody needs a hero....

This morning started out like most others.
Dear Jon, glancing at the clock, grabbing his jacket, announcing, "I'm gonna be late!"

There are a few conversations under our roof that take place sooooo often, that you know what's comin' before it's said! These parting words are often part of our farewells ;).

"Daddy, make sure you bonk the horn..." Little M calls out behind him.
"I will." And, if it's true-to-Jon form, when he agrees to something, consider it done!!

However, this morning, with the hustle and bustle, Jon forgot to "bonk" the horn before leaving for the day! Tragedy of tragedies! Suddenly I clue in that there are TEARS somewhere, and Little M is sobbing. Sob.bing. "Daddy forgot. to. bonk. the. horn!!"

"Bonking" the horn typically consists of two "toots" in the garage, followed by two more "toots" and a wild wave from the road. I'm sure our neighbors LOVE us!!!


With a flash of sudden inspiration, I decide to call Jon on the cell. "Uh, hon. We have a girlie in tears over here. You forgot to bonk the horn."

"Put her on the phone, I'll be right there."

No. Kidding. The dear man is running late, but meeting the needs of his daughter takes precedence over meeting the expectations of colleagues! 

Not only did he drive by and honk, but he pulled INTO the garage, came INSIDE, apologized!!!, gave Little M one more last hug and kiss, bonked the horn appropriately and was off for the day.

Every one needs a hero like this!!!!

In addition to his sensitivity towards his children, working with teenagers has made Jon very aware of the importance of parenting and the indescribable role of fathers. It's a job he takes very seriously. And does very very well.

There's something like a line of gold thread running through a man's words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself.  ~John Gregory Brown