On this day when we take a moment to thank our fathers (and perhaps unearth the ugliest tie in the world to give as a present), I would do something a little different than I've done in the past...take my thanks public.

Tom Simpson, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, is my Dad.  Beyond being thankful, I am also proud to be his son.  He has been, and is still a role model for me.  His ethic of hard work, love of learning new things and being honorable in all that you do remain goals for me to attain.

Some of the lessons that he taught me early on are instilled into the core of my being, the benchmarks upon which decisions are made, values judged and paths are chosen.  Though I attempted at times to stray from that core, the foundation he laid for me as a child kept me from going too far off the mark, allowing me to test the limits without trashing the base.

Dad lives as he talks.  When he says something, you can guarantee it is the truth - and if he finds that it is not, he will let you know he has made an error.  His honesty and earnestness are admirable...qualities handed down from his father and grandfather as well.  When times were tough, he found a way to get through them honorably, and improve the situation in the process.

Tom's faith and goodwill towards others are also qualities I aspire to do better with.  While I was directionless and changing geography instead of myself, his example gave me an anchor to find my way.  Rather than go on endlessly about point after point, take a look at this collage to get a feel for the man.

Happy Father's Day, Dad - I love you, and am proud to be your son.

Thanks!