It’s been a great Father’s Day in Xining.  The girls were very excited to shower me with attention and gifts.  Since I have been known to take on the persona of a Pirate they thought I needed my own treasure chest (shown here.)  I think it’s pretty cool looking. (Anna made me the blue card pictured in front off it: I Love Dad)

And of course the chest was filled with the kind of pirate booty that little girls (and scurvy dogs of all ages) especially appreciate (shown here.)

And to top it off, Christa made me my favorite breakfast (Cinnabon Clones) and put the "sports" back into my life.  I kid you not–just one day after I mentioned in a post (this was NOT a hint, I’m getting a reputation with all my begging) about the Xining sports season being OVER for me, Christa bought me a month’s subscription to MLB online.  Oh, yeah!  Watching baseball games ONLINE for a month.  Oooh, that’s sweet.  What a wonderful wife and kids I have.

And so as Father’s Day arrives soon in the United States I just want to wish my own father a great day like the one I’ve been having.  (We sent you a little something in the mail, Pops.  It’s not often that a son gets to tell his father how proud he is of him, but you are the type of father I want to be.  I try to emulate you so my girls will always know how much they are loved.  Thanks for all the sacrifices of time, energy, finances, and sanity that you gave because of me.  Thanks also for always being a man of integrity and selflessness.  With much love from the Far East.  Sorry about the repeat picture.)

And to Glenn, my father-in-law, thanks for being my West Coast "dad".  I appreciate all you’ve taught me about the love of baseball and about life.  Hope your Father’s Day is relaxing and computer-free!