It's Father's Day.

And, this morning I thought it best to shoot Olan Mills-style "scenic nature background" family photos. You remember those, right?

We all had them in the 80's. Most of them were shot through a softening filter and boasted a pull-down screen depicting an "authentic" wooded or country landscape. Some of them even had a strategically placed plastic log in the foreground on which we were instructed to "casually rest" our arms.

Family members were placed in the classic pyramid arrangement (Anyone who has worked at a photo studio knows this. I had a short run at 60 Minute Photo in Eastland Mall in 1999.) and were then instructed to "smile naturally" in matching denim button-down shirts or seasonal sweaters. It was all very natural, indeed.

Though absent fancy props, this one turned out well (even though Andrew is missing...sorry Andrew). The beautiful backyard, in which my parents have toiled over many summers, provided a truly authentic wooded scene. Aunt Kathy did a great job pressing the button. Yep. We're a decent-looking bunch.

Dad has said many times that we will all be ok. We will be ok because of the person that mom is... because her infallible character, unwavering faith and love that transcends even the greatest of obstacles will always live within us. There is no doubt this is true. And, for that, we are all really, truly blessed.

On this day, however, I'd like to point out that the three of us (Andrew, Meredith and myself) are unusually blessed in that we were raised by the best father that anyone could ask for.

In an age where dads are increasingly absent, the three of us were given one whose character not only matches, but also perfectly complements, that of our mother. His steadfast love, faith, strength and commitment to family has not only provided a top-notch model for us, but also an entire community.

For that, we are all very lucky.

Erin