To: an extra goofy, hard working, singing & dancing, very friendly, frisbee throwing, lawn obsessed, packers loving, grandpa of 3, best dad in the world, kind of guy.
10 Valuable Lessons I Learned From My Dad
1. Do something nice for someone every day
Serving the Thanksgiving meal at Ronald McDonald House
Every morning before school my dad would reinforce this phrase. Whether it means treating another person to a cup coffee, greeting a stranger with a friendly smile, or complimenting a friend, I’ve always found joy in doing good deeds for others. Big or small, your act of kindness could largely impact the life of someone who may desperately need it at that time.
2. Never lose faith, always stay optimistic
My freshman year of college, my dad was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. It was an extremely difficult time for our family, but his fight was remarkable to say the least. After his chemotherapy appointments, what seemed like effortlessly, he would head to work & move on with his day. Within 5 months he was cancer free! In my current nursing practice, I constantly reinforce the importance of positivity with my patients, as I remember the hard times my dad overcame.
3. Soak in every moment. Make the most of every opportunity.
Growing up, my dad would always say, “Steph, cherish these times, they are some of the best of your life! One day you’re going to look back & wish you could relive it all again.” Now at age 25, it truly does seem like it was just yesterday I was staying up all night at sleepovers, playing soccer under the stadium lights, & dancing the night away at the local bar with my college friends. Taking a leap to move across the country & pursue travel nursing wasn’t by chance, but rather the motivation that was instilled inside of me to seek adventure & say “yes,” to new & exciting opportunities.
4. Always take pictures. Memories are priceless.
You know that one parent that always had their camera out at every school event? That was my dad. As I’m sure the eye rolls in response to, “let me take your picture, Steph,” were less than appreciated, I am publicly vocalizing my gratefulness now. Every major milestone of my life is documented through photo or video & alphabetically organized onto their assigned DVD. So, keep taking pictures & never feel awkward about asking others to take one of you- you are capturing forever memories that may be passed on for generations to come!
5. Network with everyone you meet
If you have ever met my dad, he has likely unraveled your entire life story before your eyes. His genuine personality has allowed him to form countless friendships & relationships with peers, colleagues, & even strangers. As we all flip to new chapters in life, I have quickly learned the importance of maintaining meaningful relationships as it may become of high value in the future.
6. Take great care of your lawn
To this day, I can vow that the Farrar household has always maintained one of best looking yards in the neighborhood. Although I believe this to have become a fun & healthy hobby for my Dad, I have always viewed his perfected lawn as a metaphor. If you cut corners, take shortcuts, or do a half-ass job in life, it will reflect in one way or another to yourself & others that surround you. When you put in the time, work, & nuture the “dead spots,” in your life that need extra tending to, you’re destined to become the best version of yourself.
7. How to throw frisbee
One of my favorite pastimes shared with my dad has always been throwing frisbee. After dinner, we would play in the street, frequently hitting trees, cars, & houses (oops). All of my friends that came to the house received mini-lessons, too! Not to toot my own horn, but I’ve gotten pretty good over the years. Often times, years of practice is required to fully & comfortably adopt a skill, a realization I’ve acquired through the years of tossing disc with Dad.
8. Music is medicine
As a proud West Virginia University Marching Band alumni, music has always been an important piece of my Dad’s life. Waking up on weekend mornings, I could hear him singing along to his massive iTunes library in his office. Our drives to soccer games, vacation road trips, & family dinners were accompanied by a variety of artists, both old & new. He frequently asks, “okay, who sings this song? I’ll give you a hint…” My first concert ever was to see the band, “Kansas,” & now when “Carry On My Wayward Son,” is played, I always smile, think of my Dad, & proceed to jam out along. Of all the artists & bands I’d have to say one of his Top 5 favorites is Amberstein, a Alternative Rock Band from Milwaukee, WI. Maybe he’s little bias though, since my brother, Andrew, is the drummer!
9. Save money. Invest wisely.
Since he’s worked in the banking industry his entire life, my Dad was pretty much obligated to teach me a thing or two regarding finances. He taught me how to balance a checkbook, tip appropriately, & manage a budget. An important concept I’ve adopted is the 50/30/20 rule for distributing my monthly income. Give or take: 50% goes towards necessary items. 30% goes towards wants. 20% (at the very least) goes towards savings. At only two years into my career, I’ve become to understand the importance of “Work hard, play hard.” Working in a high stress career such as nursing, I have made it a priority to fill my off days with things I enjoy & self health. This includes things like finding new trails to hike, exploring the city I’m in, getting a massage or going to the chiropractor, watching a movie or show, or getting together with friends & family. Currently, I’m enjoying taking a month off of work at home, celebrating weddings & birthdays, & catching up with family & friends. Just one of the many perks of travel nursing! My dad has always emphasized that whatever you’re doing, make sure you enjoy it. Find what makes you happy & start investing in yourself!
10. Work hard. Give it your maximum effort, always.
For the majority of my soccer career, my Dad was my coach. Just because I was his daughter, didn’t mean he took it easy on me, either. He challenged me when I was down & never stopped pushing me to want more from myself both on & off the field. Above all, my dad has proven to be one of the hardest working, most resilient people I know. Life isn’t always daisy’s & sunshine, but one thing is for certain- you are responsible for the way you show up & what you bring to the table. When you put 110% into everything you do, there’s no room for regrets.
Dad,
You have been the best husband, father, son, brother, coach, colleague, & friend anyone could ever ask for. Thank you for molding me into the person I am, today. Happy 60th Birthday & cheers to this beautiful life you have created!
I love you so much,
Ephy
