Friday, June 06, 2008

Fathers Day Contest

The Sisters of Savings are sponsoring a contest for father's day to remember their father, Robert Hawthorne. The rules are simple. The contest will begin Saturday, June 7th and end Friday, June 13th at 3:00 p.m.

Anyone can enter the contest by posting on this blog why their dad or the father of their chidren deserves to win the wonderful package below.

One  stay at the NYLO hotel in Plano Texas with a limo ride to the hotel and a gift certificate from Ruth's Chris Steak house for $100.00 What would it mean for them to stay the night at the beautiful NYLO hotel? How would they feel if a stretch LIMO picked them up? Have they ever been to a fancy dining restaurant like Ruth's Chris Steak house? Tell us how you would feel giving them the great news!

The winner will be chosen based only on post received here. It's that simple. The winning post will also be spotlighted in the upcoming issue of the newsletter.

A Special thank you to Good Morning Texas.

Although I am not eligible to win the prize, let me share with you about a wonderful man that everyone called "PAPA" .

If you win  the prize you will need to contact the Sisters of Savings at (972) 200-4449 to arrange to receive your prize. You do not have to stay at the hotel the weekend of Fathers Day but your prize must be redeemed within sixty days. The winner must pick up the gift certificate in person from the Sisters of Savings.

34 comments:

Cheryl "Action" Jackson said...

My father was a man after God's own heart. He loved me unconditionally and trust me I tested his love on several occassions. He was a man of honor and dignity. He was a pastor and a god-praiser. He was a giver and he loved people. He also loved his family. He couldn't give us alot of things but he gave use so much love that we didn't realize we didn't have things. He played games with us until 2:00 in the morning on the weekends, mostly because he wanted to win and he wouldn't stop until he did. He was the first man to teach me about real live and how to give until it hurts. He was a man of courage and faith. He passed away on fathers day weekend four years ago and I didn't understand why God took him but what I am so grateful is that God gave him to me. I am and always will be PAPA's little girl.
Cheryl Jackson

Trish Howard said...

My nomination is for my husband, Cory Howard. Cory is a dedicated father and has been since he found out he was going to be one and the age of 15. While most boys that age would have decided the responsibility was too great, Cory got married and attended high school during the day and worked after school supporting and taking care if his new family. They did not live with their parents, so he was the sole provider. Although the marriage lasted only 18 months, he continued to see his son, pay monthly child support, and graduate high school. (I am proud to say he has never missed a child support payment.) In order to set a continuing example for his son, after high school he entered the Army and served for 4 years (he is a disabled vet). He then came home attended and graduated college, and began teaching. He has been such a wonderful example for his son. Blake now has a solid understanding about perseverance, following through with your responsibilities, over coming adversity and most of all that certain "challenges" you come across in life do not always define your life in a negative way.

Cory and I now have a beautiful little girl together and watching them interact is a heart warming experience. I remember the first time he laid eyes on her. I heard these hearty sobs, and I turned to my side to see this strong man crying uncontrollably and smiling widely at the precious little girl in his arms. I see that in him when he takes her by the little hand and dances with her to her favorite Barbie movie, or pretends he is the knight and she is the princess, in her elaborate stories. I could go on and on about the things he does with and for both of his children, but this is already lengthly. He would enjoy the prize, and I would love to tell him he could have a little attention for himself. His recognition will come when his children have children and are wonderful parents....just like their dad.

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband, Charlie Hricko, for the Father's Day Contest. Charlie married me--and my two kids--when he was only 23. For the past 14 years, he has loved and provided for all three of us. When my children's father passed away, they asked Charlie to go to the funeral with them. He did. Over the years, he's attended soccer and football games, band performances, youth events at our church, chaperoned school dances, and attended countless other events. When they have been sick, he's been right there. When my daughter needed stitches, it was him--not me--she wanted beside her.

There are lots of amazing dads I"m sure, but I feel like the fact that Charlie is such an amazing dad by choice and to someone else's children makes him pretty unique. He's sacrificed unselfishly his time and money, and given up things he wanted, to make sure my kids had everything the need and most of what they want. Although he is a quiet and humble man, I know that to recieve a gift like this would mean the world to him, and give him a couple hours 'off duty' to just rest, relax, and feel appreciated.

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband, Michael Smith. He does so much for our family and he loves our children and would lay down on tracks for them. I have MS and there are days when I can't even move. He is right there taking care of the kids and picking up the slack that I am unable to. I also attend CRID. He is so supportive and helpful and I just feel like for all the hard work he does for us that he deserves a break.

Eltonia Smith

Unknown said...

I guess by most standards my husband, Chris Barker, is a "regular" guy. He works an average job (paycheck to paycheck). We own a home in a small town, the same town he grew up in, etc... The thing that makes Chris Barker different is his heart. We have been married for eleven years, in fact June 28 is our anniversary. We have four beautiful children together: Jedidiah, Jeremiah, Esther and Sarah. They are his joy. He loves playing superhero and prince charming.
Chris had many dreams when he was young but didn't make choices that would achieve them (like many of us). However, he does not want that to happen to our children. He wants them to reach and achieve any goal/dream they want. He is a hard-worker and works hard so that our children can "be what they want when they grow up". He wants them to have character and strength so they don't have to live with "what ifs". Most important, he wants they to have a love of God and His word. Their spiritual life is of utmost importance to him and he spends many hours in prayer and tears for his family.
Finally, I would like to add that Chris is an awesome husband to me. He is loving and attentive. Actually, he is usually the one who says "we don't talk enough".
In every way, Chris is a fantastic man, husband and father. I would love to write down his entire history, but that would definately take too much space. LOL This would be a great present for father's day/anniversary! Thank you!

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband Michael to receive the stay at the NYLO Hotel? Why, because he has put up with ME for 29 years, has been a terrific father to his 2 children, an awesome role model to his son-in-law who grew up without a father in the house, and the best Poppa in the world to his two grandchildren. That, and the fact that, although he would like to stay in fancy hotels and eat at fancy restaurants, I am way too cheap and won't ever let him do it! This would be the perfect opportunity to make it all up to him!

Anonymous said...

My husband deserves this because the past two father's days he has been in Iraq. And money is tight like in most households... so a night in a hotel and steak dinner that he didn't have to cook would be so special for him.
We are adjusting to him being home, which is difficult sometimes. He is a great dad, but when you are gone the better part of two years, reconnecting is hard. Anyway, I think I would send him and our son to the hotel for a father-son overnight with dinner, etc... so they can bond. It would be spectacular for them to ride in a stretch limo. Yes, he's been to Ruth's Chris, but the last time had to be 5+ years ago. It would be wonderful to present to him that he won something this fun and nice. Thanks so much for this opportunity.
Emily

hamerhood said...

I would like to nominate my husband, David Hood. He is a wonderful father, stepfather, and grandfather. Last September we lost our only son at the young age of 19 in a one-car accident. David and Sean were as close as any father and son could possibly be. We are still grieving terribly everyday for him, but for my husband his heart is just broken. He loves our two daughters and their children immeasurably, but the joy he felt doing father-son stuff is just such a loss. I know he is dreading this first Father's day, as much, if not more than I was dreading the first Mother's day since we lost Sean, it was brutal. The holidays have been agony, his birthday was agony... and I would love to take him on a special trip to remember and celebrate our son's life, with the hope that it will help him to get through Father's day with the least amount of pain. In one year we lost my father, his brother, and our son, my husband lost his job, we lost our home and the losses have only added up to more and more misery. Thank you for considering this loving father for this special trip.
Sincerely,
Pam Hood
hamerhood@att.net

jimswife said...

My husband is the most amazing man, I know alot of people think that their spouse is great but mine truly has been a god send.

When I met my husband I was a newly divorced mother of two pre-teens, my self esteem was shot and even my view of myself as a mother was not very good. When I met James he listened to my feelings and fears and without judgement he helped me discover just how great I am. Finally, I found myself involved with a true partner he did not walk behind me pushing me along, he did not walk in front of me dragging me and urging me to catch up, he simply walked beside me holding my hand and encouraging me every step along the way.

From the minute we said "I do" my husband has called my children his own, he does not refer to himself as their step dad but as their dad. They have two dads and he is happy to take any place, any role in their lives that they allow. Shortly after we were married my son wanted to play basketball with the YMCA and they threatened to cancel the team because they didn't have a coach. Without missing a beat my husband stepped up. It wasn't until we went to the first coaches meeting that I realized he didn't have clue about the game, he had never played basketball before! But he went to the library and called a friend who had played in college. He studied day and night and he learned drills and plays right along with the boys. I was so touched that he would risk falling on his face at a task he had never tried before letting my son be let down. Throughout the years he has continued these types of things.

When we met I told him I didn't want to have another baby and he said my two would be enough. Soon after watching him raise our two children and the way he took to parenthood, I knew I had to give this man a baby of his own. Not only for his sake but also mine. I wanted to experience a pregnancy with a man who was involved, I wanted to raise a child from birth with a man who enjoyed every minute of it right along with me.

Now after four years of marriage we share three children together. Throughout my pregnancy James was right there, he made me wish it would never end. He was so attentive, loving, excited and fun. After the baby was born this didn't change. He wouldn't miss a thing, when the baby woke in the middle of the night he got him out of bed, he changed every diaper and gently brought him to me to nurse and even then he waited til we were done feeding before returning to bed. Now that baby is four years old and he still bathes him and puts him to bed 99% of the time. Not because I can't or won't but because he truly enjoys every minute with him and know that those breif quiet moments are the absolute best.

He has put all hobbies and interests on the back burner to allow his freetime to be spent with our children and to allow them to expereice everything they want to do. With two teenagers and all that includes, between tennis, band, dance, football games and chasing a three year old he rarly has time to think of himself, I would love to give him this gift of something just for him, to thank him for all he does for us, since his every thought is how to give us everything we need physically, emotionally and more.

Thank you for allowing me to brag a bit about my husband (which is something I obviously enjoy), and for consideration in this wonderful prize.

Anonymous said...

How Fred saved the lives of 3 little boys and their mommy......

Good Morning Ladies! When I saw this on television, I HAD to at least TRY to tell you all about the #1 Father, Husband and MAN on this planet.

My name is Carolyn and I am 33 years old. I want to tell you why FRED deserves this prize!

As a child, there were men in and out of my life - who were "fathers" if thats what you want to call them. My real dad would get drunk and hit my mom and when she remarried when I was 5 - I began getting molested. This went on for a VERY long time before my mom found out. By then I was already 16 and we left again. I felt NO TRUST for ANY MAN at that point. As you can imagine I did everything wrong as a teenager and I didn't know nor did I care or value myself as a GIRL or even a WOMAN. I had NO IDEA who I was, what I liked or what I wanted in life. I dated several boys as a young girl and was in SEVERAL VERY abusive relationships. I swore that was what I deserved in life because thats all I knew was abuse.

I had 3 children BEFORE I was 21 years old and then I had my tubes tied (finally one responsible decision, lol). I got pregnant by guys who couldnt have cared less for me. Now here I was accepting what I thought I deserved and my children were suffering....

FINALLY GOD STEPPED IN AND SAID ENOUGH SUFFERING FOR CALEB, BLAKE AND NOAH!!!!!!!

When I met Fred, I was going through an UNIMAGINABLY rough time in my life. My cousin had just been murdered and I was about to lose my uncle who HAD RECENTLY been more involved in my life and was becoming more like a Dad to me. It was VERY close to the point where 3 boys were going to lose their mommy. I was so depressed and even very seriously considering suicide. I knew noone wanted us and I already had these 3 boys and was unable to have any other children even if I DID find a man!

The day I met Fred was my birthday (April 2, 2004) This is when fate stepped in and saved my boys and I.

I was VERY untrusting and so were my boys. I think it took the BOYS convincing me that he would be a good daddy to finally realize our dream had finally come true. My Boys and I waited for what seemed like an eternity to START living and now it has been 4 years since Fred and I met and 1 year ago since we married. Fred gave my boys a NEW LIFE! Not one second goes by where they EVER doubt his undying love and affection for their precious souls.

It took him such a LOOOOONG time to convince us he was HERE TO STAY but he was so persistent and it finally paid off. Needless to say, we went through our rough times but looking back, I see that we went through them for a very special reason. We needed to see that he would be there through thick and thin come what may TILL DEATH DO WE PART.

He asked US to marry him on April 7, 2007 (because it wouldnt be complete without the approval of the 3 most important men in my life!)

We were married on June 4, 2007. The boys and I have never EVER been happier in our lives. We finally believe that we are getting what we have longed for! He loves us so much. All the boys have made 360 degree turns for the better and we make baby steps daily to get better and better.

Fred is always on our side
We never doubt for one second he is the MAN OF OUR DREAMS!

He is an AWESOME father to Caleb (15) Blake (12) and Noah (9) – these boys love him more than anything. They look up to him and I can see it in their eyes that they are so thankful for bringing their mommy back to them! I love Fred beyond any describable words. I have also attached a link to a video tribute I made for him - please take the time to watch it because it gives you a deeper glimpse into us and who we are. Thank you JESUS for giving 3 innocent precious souls a shot at a REAL life in this cruel and sometimes heartless world.

In closing, I would like to say that Fred deserves this so much! My entire family and his would agree as well. Fred NEVER EVER and I mean NEVER gets to do anything like "get away or be pampered because his life REVOLVES around 3 boys that he is being the DAD he NEVER HAD TO BE TO! Please cut and past the link below into your browser and enjoy the video! It makes the boys and I cry everytime we watch it!

http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=218923cc51d7144d46e825&skin_id=1604&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my father, Todd Burns. He truly is a deserving man of this award. He became a father at the age of 15 to my twin and I. When many boys would have run, my father stayed with my mother and made it work. He has worked many jobs through the years to help make ends meet. Vacations have been rare for he and my mother. There are many things he has done for my sisters and my brother and I through the years. But I would like to hilight his most recent.
My husband and I are separated and my kids and I had no where to go. My father immediately stepped in and began to make arrangements for us to have a place to live. He began to construct a small apartment in his back yard. My parents don't have a lot of money or resources, but he has heart. He has invested his time and money to give my children and I a place to live. And through it all, he never once complained. He has gone above and beyond to make sure we are taken care of. And to top it off, he encourages me to trust God and know that He will take care of us and that all will work out. He could be bitter and resentful about my husband, but instead chooses to be an example of Godly love.
My dad has been working overtime to get his work done for his job and coming home at night to finish the apartment. I believe that he deserves this award for the best father. They wouldn't be able to take this kind of night out. So please consider my father for your award.

Unknown said...

I would like to introduce you to a man who defines what a good father is:

My best friend
faithful husband
proud father
loving brother
awesome uncle
caring son
terrific son-in-law
involved grandson
neat nephew
crazy cousin
concerned friend
dedicated deacon
sincere Sunday school teacher
godly Christian man
honest & fair employee...


With all that being said...he is one of the most selfless and generous human beings I know. After 14 years of marriage...I would pick him again. I am blessed that he picked me.

He deserves this...because he would never want to spend money on himself. Plus, as parents of 5 small children...we rarely get to date!

Our children say, “Daddy is the greatest daddy ever!” I would have to agree. I am glad our 2 sons have such a great example to follow. Our daughters will know what a “real” man is and will know what to look for in their future husbands.

Last but certainly not least...he still looks great in Wranglers...at nearly 40!

So, if you want to find out who this guy really is...pick him...you will not be sorry! He touches so many lives and never once takes the credit! He wouldn't hear of it!

I want to give my husband, Brady Dempsey, credit where credit is due in a BIG “Good Morning Texas” way!

Blessings ~ Jennifer, Summer, Dalton, Brenna, Asa, & Allie

The Mitchells said...

My husband, Joe Mitchell, is an amazing father; but I’m sure most wives think that same thought daily. Let me tell you a few reasons why he is a great father to my children and why he deserves this prize, and will never think that he’s doing anything more than he should be doing. My husbands’ first goal is to teach both of our children to love the Lord with all of their hearts. Even though they are both young, he has already made it a central focus in our family as he rarely misses a Sunday at church and even made sure and took our daughter, each week I couldn’t make it when I gave birth to our son 4 months ago. Our daughter is a challenge for any parent, but my husband has done such an amazing job with her. Ella was born 2 years ago, contracted an illness at birth and after 72 hours of seizures; she had enough brain damage to diagnose her with Cerebral Palsy within the first year of her life. Joe’s first response when the doctors said she may not live was to kneel down and pray…and he hasn’t ceased to pray. Now at 2 years old Ella is a physical and emotional challenge, but Joe never waivers. He attends as many doctors appointments, surgeries, and therapy sessions as possible. He has cleaned bottles, by hand, every night for 2 years. He has given Ella, and now our son Will, a bath daily. He never complains about dirty diapers, and with two, there are a lot of diapers. Joe puts my son to bed every night so that I can get some sleep at the beginning of the night...he even gets up with them over the weekends because he knows that my sleep is lacking. My amazing husband has worked for a great company for the last 8 years. He is dedicated to providing for our family, and manages to take care of all of us while working 50 hours a week…and then comes home and takes care of each of our needs. Joe does it all. He cleans the kitchen every night, he does laundry, he keeps the outside of our house clean and working properly…he is our everything. One way that he is a wonderful dad to our family is that he is the partner to me that God commanded him to be…and so much more. This prize would be a huge gift to him and it would be a gift to our marriage to have a stress-free night away…but whether he wins this prize or not, he’s still the Worlds Greatest Dad.

Anonymous said...

My husband, Ray, deserves a free night at the NYLO hotel because everything he does, he does with our family in mind. We have a 3 year old girl and a 6 month old son, and he works 3 jobs at a time to enable me to stay home and raise our kids. He works a 40 hr a week corporate job where he drives from Desoto (where we live) to Plano 5 days a week, and he drops our daughter off at school on his way each morning. Then he comes home in the evenings and works his insurance business. Then to top it off, he's also a photographer so he has various photography engagements on the weekend. And while he does all of this, he still makes time to be a great father to our children. They adore him and their faces light up every time he walks into the room. He never complains, he just gets up every morning and does what he needs to do. He is such a blessing to us. We haven't had a vacation since 2005, so I would love to be able to bless him with a night at the NYLO so he can have a vacation within the city. With all the hours that he puts in every week, it would be a nice getaway for him.
Thanks,
Tiffani S. Hodges

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband Chris for so many reasons, which I will try to keep short!

I have known Chris for nearly 8 years and 3 1/2 of them we have been married. For the last several years my health has been an issue. I have had 8 surgeries for various problems, 3 of them being in 2007.

In the first month of knowing Chris we talked about children and our desire to one day have a family.

In 2006 I was told I had a 9 cm mass on my only remaining ovary and would need surgery. In fear that I would loose my ability to have children, we asked the doctor if she could give us 3 months to try and get pregnant. The doctor said it wouldn't happen, but didn't hurt to wait a little longer.

With lots of prayers and great knowledge that we serve an awesome God, I was pregnant within a month! It was the most exciting and to be honest scary time of our
lives. The mass was gone by my first ultrasound and I had a healthy pregnancy and delivery (January 2007).

Chris has been so amazing and has sacrificed so much in order for me to be a stay at home mom. We understood years ago that these first few years of our child's life was so important and to be honest, I would be working
to pay for day care. Shortly after we came home from the hospital, we
had a mold issue in our apartment. We were told that we needed to move
because the apartment was a health risk and we would get financial help from the leasing company and when it came down to our move, they denied ever willing to help.

Chris pulled our money together to pay for a move, deposits and transfer fees, so that our son didn't have to live in an unhealthy environment.
I was in an old car with over 120.000 miles and Chris felt was not ideal (safe) for his son and wife to travel in. So, Chris found the absolute best deal on a lease transfer from a higher up with Chevy and flew to TN for next to nothing and drove back to Dallas in one day.
Such a sacrifice for the greater good of his family. I then underwent 2
more operations, each one putting me out of normal activity for 6 weeks
at a time.

Thanks to an emotional severance (layoff) package
from my husbands job in early 2008, we were able to buy our first home and packed up for a second time in less than two years.

To make a very long story short. I am still struggling with my health, our 16 month old son may be faced with surgery himself, or finances are tighter than they have ever been and to add the greatest struggle we have faced in all of our time together, his mom has been diagnosed (just over a week ago) with stage 4 breast cancer (we are a very close
family). Through it ALL, Chris has always kept a smile, always left
work at work, never showed a sign of stress or frustration. He has been an amazing father, husband and friend. He has taken just a hand full of days for himself in the time of our marriage. He believes that things should always be about us as a family and not about himself. But as we all know, everyone deserves a day,just for "self".

I have spent so much time crying and praying. Even though, I had no control, its always been about me due to my health. I want Chris to have a night thats all about him for once. Allowing him to see, even more, how much I love him, how much Connor loves his daddy and just how special and rare his is.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and giving us this opportunity,
Ashlee & Connor

Anonymous said...

Dearest Ms. Jackson,

I believe my husband and father to my two son's deserves a day off! He is a Fort Worth Police Officer. He works his job (on the night-shift) and is so tired when he gets home in the morning. He sleeps during the day and wakes up as the kids are coming home from school or just having lunch since it is now summer. The little energy he has after working all night, I make sure he spends with his sons. We moved here when he was in the Navy and stationed at NASJRB, the base here in FW. He then got out of the Navy and wanted to stay here instead of moving closer to our hometowns, in and near Waco, TX, because he liked Fort Worth and believed he had a better chance of finding a good, steady job. That is when he went through the police academy.
Since our families both live two hours away, we have little alone time since we really don't have a baby-sitter anytime we want. I think this would be a great break for both of us...of course he'd have to take me!!

Not to mention that 5 years ago, ON Father's Day June 15, 2003, our youngest son was born. We have always made a joke that I could NEVER give him a better Father's Day gift! I think this might be very close!!!

Thank you for the opportunity and taking the time to read my letter. I am just so proud of all my husband has done for me, our sons and the community!

Sincerely,
Nicole Pelton

Anonymous said...

My name is Deidre Nelson and I am 12 years old. My sisters name is Dharma and she is 7
years old.

I think my daddy is very special because he spends time with me and my sister. I think
he is very funny and he likes to work with me on my school projects. My daddy sacrifices
a lot for me and my sister to keep us in private school. He works very hard so that my
mom can be a stay at home mom. He is the best daddy that I could ever ask for. He likes
to ride his scooter along with me and my sister. He goes swimming with us. My sister
thinks that daddy is nice. We know that daddy loves us very much because he shows us and
tells us all the time. My daddy deserves this because he is the best daddy in the whole
world, just ask me and my sister. I really hope that you choose my daddy.

Thank you,

Deidre Nelson

Anonymous said...

Hi Cheryl!

I saw you on GMT this morning and loved the segment. I just graduate from college and have temporarily moved back home. My dad could not deserve this night out anymore! In the passed few years my dad, Les, has had to deal with a back injury that almost destroyed his business. He had back surgery a few years ago, but that has hardly helped his health. He is a loan officer in the ever decreasing housing industry so you can imagine the stress that comes with that.

I am the oldest of four kids... my parents managed to put me through 4 years of school and attended my graduation this passed May. My younger brother went to college this passed year, but had to come home early because of a freak accident (his lung collapsed) while at school. He was in the hospital for a total of a month and had countless surgeries to prevent his lung from collapsing ever again. The hospital bills are flooding in. Before this happened, my dad was just trying to stay-a-float, now it's an all out battle everyday not to mention the pain from his back.

To make the stress level even higher... I am getting married on June 28th. My dad is so excited for me, but sometimes I worry about how much stress he doesn't show. He's always been good at hiding his stress to keep his family from stressing or becoming fearful. He keeps his head up, works 7 days a week, 12 hours a day, and still has a smile on his face. I can not think of anything my dad deserves more than this amazing "escape" from life - what perfect timing.

Thanks for the opportunity,

Jessica Shaw

Anonymous said...

My husband Mark and I celebrated our 20th anniversary last year. Our life together has been filled with joy and laughter, sorrow and tears, but through it all, we always emerge, united as a family!
 
We are lucky enough to be the parents of three healthy, lively, happy children. Our journey has not been an easy one, but our foremost goal has always been to provide a family for our children to feel loved, safe and welcome in, no matter what!

We have experienced wealth and times of hardship.  Mark has taken on an unbelievable amount of stress the last few years to be able to provide a home for us.  My business closed and I started in a new industry which seemed perfect for me - then the mortgage crisis hit and I have been struggling to maintain the same level of financial support as before. Throughout this Mark has planned ahead - taken on extra projects to fill the gap.
 
He goes everyday to work at a job he hates because he doesn't have a choice.

He comes home every night to eat with me and the kids. He manages to maintain a use and special relationship with each of our kids - Sara, Carson and Lucas.  He stays up late to prepare the boys dirt bikes for the next race - often working while everyone else has gone to bed because he has no other time to do this.  He arranges rides with friends for the boys when he is unable to take off for the whole weekend, often arriving late on Saturday night after a 10 hour day at work so he can be there first thing Sunday morning for a race.
 
Because money is tight, he has managed to turn their hobby into an income producing business ( in addition to his job),  making just enough to offset the expenses so the boys can participate.
 
I recently wrote my "mom mission statement" and one of the things I wrote was that I wanted to experience the joy of my children EVERY DAY!  I am sad because I feel that Mark doesn't always get to experience that joy that children bring every day.  Many times he arrives home at that time of day that has everyone tired and cranky ( the joy has left for the day!!).
 
I could go on and on, but when I ask him what he needs, he always says I'm so tired.
I think a night at the hotel would provide much needed rest & rejuvenation!

Maybe this doesn't sound like anything that any other father doesn't do, but I know what it takes out of him on a daily basis, yet he does it willingly because he loves us.
I know that each of our children feel loved and special because of the relationship he nurtures with each of them. We are blessed to have him in our lives.

Sincerely,

Anonymous said...

Dear Miss. Jackson,

My step father was in a gas explosion back in September of 2003 and we
didn't know if he would live or not. But my sister and I are glad that he did.
Since then our father has made our life just that more complete. He spends time
with me and my sister all of the time. Even though he's a truck driver he's
never too tired to spend quality time with us. Our real dad doesn't take time
out to call us to see how we are doing, or come to visit with us.

Our step father has stepped up to the plate and tells us how much he loves
us. We would love for our father to win this prize because he and our mom
first date was in his hospital room, and there first meal was jello that they
shared together. Our mom thinks that was so romantic. And even if we don't win,
we know our father is a winner, and we thank God for him.

Thank you for allowing us to share this with you.

With kind regards,

Mercedes (12) and Kenneth (10) Tobias

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my dad, hes the best dad in the world. Last Oct. he lost his job and just now recd a part time. Which is not providing much work for him. Am only just turn 16 I have a brother 14 at home. My mom has been working all the overtime she came just to make bills meet(but the overtime at work stopped) My dad has just started his business back up to try to help w/ some of the money issue. I know this year I will not be able to get him much maybe some dollar items but he will like them no matter what. Christmas was ruff but he seen that we had what we had put on the list for Santa to bring. Him and my mom has not had a vacation in a long time,I would like to see him go and have some time in a nice place for awhile because with gas prices and food going up they always be sure we have food, gas to go to church and clothes and shoes.(we get no asst. they do it on there own) I would like him to recd it so that he and my mom could enjoy a relaxing time away from the worry of bills, and the house and have a excellent father day this year that I will not be able to provide.
My dad always tells my mom it will be ok I know he tells her that because he trust god. His heart is the best he always understanding with me good or bad I guess you could say unconditionly loves me just like god above never except anything from me but my room clean. For 16 yrs he been the greatest when times are tuff he see us thourgh it just like god above. He love me, works hard, and takes care of my grandmother on my mom side since my grandfater died 5 yrs ago he goes in the middle of the night at 3am when she calls just to fix her fire alarms or whatever it may be He the must understanding father I have ever know. (after watching some my friends fathers) Please condsier giving him this package. Tiana

Anonymous said...

My dad grew up in East Texas without much. Sometime no food to eat. His mom died when he was 4 so his grandmother helped his dad raise him. When he was in college and 18 his dad died so he dropped out of college and went to work so he could pay off his dad's debts. He moved to Dallas to live with his aunt and uncle and went to work for Braniff Airlines where he met my mother. He then became a police officer for University Park. My sister and I were born while he was a police officer. He later became a fire fighter for the city of Richardson. Our family moved to Garland where my parents raised us. My dad always provided more than we needed financially by mowing yards, cleaning carpets and any additional work he could find part time. The most important thing my dad gave us was love, discipline and tought us to respect and give to others. My dad would make sure our family was in church every Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednesday night. He not only talked the talk. He walked the walk! About 30 years ago my parents decide to buy a piece of land just east of Terrell on Hwy.80. My dad planted a few peach trees. This was going to be a place our family could get away to and enjoy. We would sell the peaches in our front yard in Garland. Our few peach trees produced so much fruit one summer that we could not sell them all in our yard. I suggested to my dad that we pull our pickup on the side of the Highway at the farm and see if anyone would stop. We sold out of that pickup load in 1 hour which began a new little part time business for my family. My dad would often give peaches to people he knew could not afford them. My parents would also visit many of the people they would meet taking them food to their home and giving them money for medicine they could not afford. My dad made sure my sister and I were a part of the giving so we would learn how important it is to give to others. My dad has now grown our little peach truck business into one of the largest orchards in the state of Texas providing jobs for many people. The reason my dad deserves a night on the town is because he is always giving to others and very seldom gives back to himself. He drives his truck until it blows up on the side of the road. He doesn't care about fancy clothes and always tells us he has more than he needs at Christmas. My dad would never spend his money in a frivilous way. If you would sit down with my dad for 15 minutes you would understand why I think he is the most deserving of something so special. He is the most God fearing, honorable, loving, and generous dad in the world.

11:21 AM

Anonymous said...

*I would like to add a few things to my previous post *please*

What would it mean for them to stay the night at the beautiful NYLO hotel?

HIS FIRST QUESTION WOULD BE CAN MY BOYS COME TOO?????? :-)

It would mean that Fred feels like a KING for one night. I know he doesn't ever expect ANYTHING in return for all he does for our boys like:

Consistently takes them to church -He follows God's word about being the Spiritual leader of our home.

Takes care of his wife, mother and any and I mean ANY other family member or friend who is in trouble WITHOUT any hesitation. He cared for his Grandmother in her last days - He stopped his own life and just gave her whatever she needed. He was so caring and loving.

Works SO hard on a daily basis at work. His bosses adore him because of his strong work ethic. He doesn't make much money but he works SO HARD out in the sun all day long just to put food in our mouths and a roof over our head.

He has given 3 boys the chance at seeing how good life can be. He has shown them that there ARE men left in this world who can love you from the deepest depths of his soul and even though Fred is NOT their biological father he loves them UNDOUBTEDLY like they were his own flesh and blood.

How would they feel if a stretch LIMO picked them up?
He would LOVE it but he would be embarassed of all the hoopla over him because he so unselfishly stands in the background and NEVER EVER gets any recognition!

Have they ever been to a fancy dining restaurant like Ruth's Chris Steak house?

ONCE - we went to a nice place but the kitchen was closed :-( this is the night he asked the boys and I to be with him FOREVER!

Tell us how you would feel giving them the great news!

I would be overjoyed and in TEARS! We were married in a VERY small ceremoney...that night we were too tired to do ANYTHING AND we had to work the next day (our schedule and financial situation does not EVER allow for vacation so it was a quick little thing. We never had a honeymoon or a reception. Our first anniversary just passed and we didnt even have any money to do anyhting that day - OH and I was ILL ON HIS BIRTHDAY! He has such BAD luck sometimes. I want to do something for him SOOOO BAD!

I hope you consider this when making a decision!

Happy Fathers Day to ALL THE MEN OUT THERE like FRED who step up to the plate and raise their children with love and love their wives like there is no tomorrow...........

Anonymous said...

NUMBER ONE DAD

Let me tell you about
a Dad like no other
Whose attributes shine
One after another

He helps with two kids,
Ages five and two,
Without being asked
Or told what to do.

He cleans the house
More than Mom could
‘cause two kids under six
Can sure mess it up good!

ADD walking the dog -
An EXHUBERANT Retriever -
Whose excitement abounds
to willing receivers.

All this he does
With a smile on his face
Even after working
Out in the “rat race”.

He comes home from work
with a smile that’s disarming
and plays silly games
Even acts like “Prince Charming”.

Then, when it’s time
To tuck children in
He reads them both stories
And adds voices akin

So when you step back
To take stock in the Dads
Remember this jewel
That most wish they had!

By Erica and Evan McMasters (as translated by Mommy -Melanie)

Anonymous said...

My husband, Brian and I, got married in October of 2007. My story is not one that has a lot of twist and turns, but one of a very special man in my life that stands out to me and my daughter every day. When Brian and I met, I already had Mia. She was 2 when we met and is about to be 4 in July. I think that my husband deserves this because he is a man that filled a piece of my daughters life in a way that she never had. Those two have been close as can be since the day they met. He was very nervous about taking on that role in her life and wondered if he would be good at it. Well seeing the way that she looks at him with those big brown eyes tells me all I need to know. I am so grateful to have a man that selflessly took on this responsibility and claims Mia as his own. A lot of men out there would not do something like that, but the fact that he chose to be her daddy means everything in the world to Mia and I. Sometimes I don't think I always show him or tell him but he is the best gift that I could have ever given to my daughter and we are so blessed to have our happy little family and he is the heart of it! He may have been nervous about being a father but when when our family see's the two of them together with her dress up clothes on and dancing in the middle of the floor you would never know that he even thought twice about it! He takes her to school every morning, and helps so much around the house. When she is frightened or afraid she wants her daddy! When she has good news to share, she wants her daddy, when it is tea time, there is always a cup for her daddy. She has a sign that hangs over her bed that sums it all up, "I found my prince, and his name is DADDY!" Mia loves the story that I tell her about how out of all the little girls in all the world Daddy wanted her and he chose her!

My husband deserves this because he chose to love both of us unconditionally, and that selfless act, although he may not know, has changed our lives in the biggest way forever.
Jacklyn E. Cross-Casey110

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband, Jake. He is an incredible husband, father and friend. He loves God with all his heart and leads our family. He is always willing to go the extra mile for others. He is such a hard-worker. I am so blessed to get to spend the rest of my life with this wonderful man and our children are equally blessed.

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband Tim, he has been a good father to my children and stood beside us not matter what in the death of a father that had been marrie to my mom 45 yrs. would do anything for her. My father was a great man name Wayne god took him at an young age of 64 we do miss him. Tim my husband takes care of my kids make sure they get what is needed even when times seems bad he always picks them up. Always telling me everything will be ok thinking due to he has more faith in god than I do. And everything turns out ok. The last yr has been hard for us unemployee and other issue illness etc. But we made it this far and marrie in Sept for 20 yrs times been ruff and I keep praying to God that no matter what things will be better. Money not everything always states Love means more than money if it was for money we would not survied only love his for me and his children has gotten us this far. I think this would be a wonderful surpise,and since money is tight it would be a great gift for his kids to give him.
Be Blessed!
tsmcom@yahoo.com contact info or 903-513-9719 Love your site and ideas hope to come to a class soon as i can get the funds. I always clip and triple , double coupons.

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my dad, hes the best dad in the world. Last Oct. he lost his job and just now recd a part time. Which is not providing much work for him. Am only just turn 16 I have a brother 14 at home. My mom has been working all the overtime she came just to make bills meet(but the overtime at work stopped) My dad has just started his business back up to try to help w/ some of the money issue. I know this year I will not be able to get him much maybe some dollar items but he will like them no matter what. Christmas was ruff but he seen that we had what we had put on the list for Santa to bring. Him and my mom has not had a vacation in a long time,I would like to see him go and have some time in a nice place for awhile because with gas prices and food going up they always be sure we have food, gas to go to church and clothes and shoes.(we get no asst. they do it on there own) I would like him to recd it so that he and my mom could enjoy a relaxing time away from the worry of bills, and the house and have a excellent father day this year that I will not be able to provide.
My dad always tells my mom it will be ok I know he tells her that because he trust god. His heart is the best he always understanding with me good or bad I guess you could say unconditionly loves me just like god above never except anything from me but my room clean. For 16 yrs he been the greatest when times are tuff he see us thourgh it just like god above. He love me, works hard, and takes care of my grandmother on my mom side since my grandfater died 5 yrs ago he goes in the middle of the night at 3am when she calls just to fix her fire alarms or whatever it may be He the must understanding father I have ever know. (after watching some my friends fathers) Please condsier giving him this package. Tiana contact me at jmixson3@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I really enjoy your feature on Good Morning Texas. I want to tell you about my husband. We met 25 years ago when I was a young divorced mother with two small children. We dated for three years and when my daughter asked him if he loved me and wanted to marry me he thought a minute and said yes. We have now been married for 22 years and have a 19 year old daughter together. He accepted my children as his own and has been the most wonderful husband and father. Twelve years ago he was laid off from his job of 26 years and has struggled to find a job because he is older. He has worked up to three jobs at a time just to make ends meet. He even delivered Pizza for awhile for extra money. He now has a job that we are hoping will work out. He has not been able to take time off in years. He is always taking care of everyone else and deserves to be treated special. On top of all of the job stresses our daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when she was just 3 1/2 years old. He has had the worry of keeping insurance to help with the overwhelming health costs of this disease. He also would check her blood sugar every night at 2am to make sure she was ok. I hope you will consider this wonderful man who did not have to choose this complicated life but makes the most of it with a smile on his face.

Sincerely,

Linda Bailey, proud wife

Anonymous said...

If my dad could get a night of rest.
Staying at the Nylo Hotel would be the best.

Away from the four years of pagers, crime and wakeup calls.
Riding in a limo, he would have a ball.

This Fathers Day gift would make him feel like a king.
Eating steak at Ruth’s Chris would be his thing.

My dad everyday makes a big splash.
If I need him, he is there in a flash.

My policeman dad is an American hero.
He chases criminals and makes the traffic flow.

He saves people in tornadoes and fires.
He seems to never tire.

Creating a charity for police widows, he is so good.
Building a playground for the poor, he is like Robin Hood.

Even when he was seriously ill last year, he went to all my games to see me score.
Working extra jobs to pay for batting lessons and helping me with my homework, he is the worlds’ best dad and deserves an evening out so he could stress no more.

My dad is up for two days at a time with shootings and crime.
As the Arlington police spokesperson, he is on call 24 hours a day and never gets to rest for a long time.

He tries to help others whenever he can.
He gets the criminals and helps people when they are sad. He is the man.

He takes the bad guys to jail.
He tries his best and never fails.

He loves God and his family.
And protects the land of the free.

As a dad, he is my coach and always shows love. That is the key.
He always says he loves us. Because in his job, with his life, there are no guarantees.

My dad works hard to provide for me.
To tell him this good news would make me so happy.

This part of the nomination is from his wife.
I first met my husband in the middle of the night.
Telling me that my first husband had died, I thought things would never be right.

As his training officer, he wished he had been the one to die.
After a year of police ceremonies, it was still so hard to say goodbye.

Through everything, I grew to love his giving personality, sense of humor and smile.
Creating a charity memorial golf tournament, he always goes the extra mile.

Because he is selfless and caring, my first inlaws consider him their son.
We all know he is a treasure and truly number one.

He named our son Craig, after the man that brought us together through love and grief.
To finally have our cute baby was such a relief.

He makes me laugh and truly spoils me with surprises too.
With our kids, I love how he plays with them, he really knows what to do.

At home, he kisses hurt knees and wipes runny noses.
And never forgets our anniversary with many a rose.

At home, he makes grocery store trips and attends practices to see our kids score.
Taking care of sick kids, he never says housework is a chore.

Blake is my Prince Charming, giving me a second chance at life and love.
My life is so full and fun with my perfect mate, I have been twice blessed from up above.

From Cindy Miller
6:00 PM

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my dad for this wonderful adventure to the luxurious NYLO hotel. First i would like to say my mom is an active member on her so thanks to her i found out about this contest.

My dad is constantly working from the house trying to take care of me. He has recently been very stressed and i have been getting the heat from it. I would just like to be able to take him out for a night of unstressful fun. He would love the food and a great limo ride. Especially staying at the NYLO hotel.

Sunday being Father's Day i am very behind on finding something special to do for him and with him. This would be perfect because of my young age (being only 17). I dont have much money so this would be a big help.

Thanks for your time SOS.

-jordan r

Anonymous said...

I would like to nominate my husband Eric. I grew up not thinking of marriage especially children. I would be a successful single female and my dogs would be my children. I married Eric at 30. I am one that everyone earns their keep and everyone must earn trust. Eric on the other hand is very giving, trusts everyone and would help anyone in need no questions asked. I feel in love with him more and more each day and we married. He was the one that had by bubble bath going with a glass of wine waiting for me after 10-12 hours of working and making sure I had some dinner to eat and clothes laid out for the next day. I realized this is the man I would want to marry and someday be the father of my child. Once Keenan was born, he let me get my rest and shared the responsibility of the many sleepless hours it took to raise our new born. Keenan now at age 2 1/2 Eric still shares the responsibility during my days of traveling or just a long day from work. My eyes tear up seeing my husband light up every moment he sees our son with what little time is left in his day. The bath he fits in before Keenan's bed time without having a chance to eat dinner or seeing the two fall asleep on the recliner. It's my turn to pamper my husband now after the 11 hours shifts he puts in. I want him to know Keenan and I love him and appreciate him more than he ever knows.

Anonymous said...

My husband Joel deserves a night out; day one of our 25-year marriage he has been a WONDERFUL husband and father. He has made the ultimate sacrifice; himself for his family needs.

There was a time when Joel wasn’t being able to go outside, because things in the atmosphere was causing his airway to shut down; resulting in him not being able to work much. If he went to work a short time later he would be returning home due to his inability to breathe. Our three daughters and I took care of the lawn and everything that pertained to the house, while Joel was unable to. Today Joel has trouble with his back and legs, but he doesn’t complain. He goes out everyday, and provides a living for us, oftimes with my assistance. After a day’s work he needs to be massaged or stretching because of the pain in his back and legs. Joel says, it is worth it all, to have peace of mind and to spend quality time with the Lord and us.

Joel remains steadfast and confident that God will see us through everything we encounter. Years ago Joel made the life changing decision to live as Christ. He sold everything including our home in return for a relationship with the Lord. We had no idea where we were going to live or anything, but we trusted Joel and God for our future, resulting in God revealing himself to him, and he becoming a great man of honor and faith, that LOVE the Lord, and makes wise and Godly decisions for our lives. He does not sacrifice our family for worldly gain, but enjoys every moment with us. He is truly a God loving, and God fearing man of God who lives what he speaks about.

Unknown said...

I would like to nominate my husband, Ernie Suarez. He has been such a dedicated father, husband & friend to all. He spends every morning in prayer for his family and friends. We have been married for 12 years and have a son 8 years old. At times, our life has been difficult and my husband has always been our rock. No matter how bad things have gotten for our family, he always manages to keep it on a positive note and is very uplifting to all. When we were married, we did not have the money for a honeymoon. We do not go out to eat often as there is usually no extra money left over after the bills are all paid. He has been a kind & giving christian man and will always drop whatever it is he is doing to help a friend in need. My dad lived with us for a few years and even though it was my dad, not his, he took care of him just as if he were his own dad (taking him to doctors appointments, grocery shopping, cemetary visits for my mother, etc). My husband grew up in a very abusive household but somehow managed to rise above it all through the Lord's grace and forgiveness. He is truly a great father to our son. He is always there when my son arrives home from school, he cleans the house, he tends to anything that needs fixing, he takes care of all the bills that need to be paid and never complains about it. He is a God loving and fearing man. Our life would not be complete without this wonderful man. He has never had a night or weekend away from our home. As far as nice restaurants, we really can't afford them. Even if he doesn't win the contest, he will always be FATHER OF THE YEAR to us.