#38: Not Your Average Dad Jokes

British rock, pickles, and my father

One of the best Christmas gifts I ever received was a sheet of paper from my dad. On it, he listed his favorite things about me in his signature blocky handwriting. I was a junior in high school, hiding behind a swoop of side bangs and cheap black eyeliner. But my dad always saw me for who I was (and made sure to tell me).  

Note that the “fun sophisticated style” was a gold headband with a bow on it from Forever 21.

Over a decade later, it’s my turn to say my favorite things about him. I love how he always answers my phone calls with a cheery “Hello, H Pie!” — a nickname that predates my own memory. I love his passion for British rock, how The Clash and David Bowie and The Cure made up the soundtrack of my childhood. I love the videos he sends to the family group chat, usually shaky clips of our three dogs awaiting a treat with wide wet eyes while he narrates. I love that I can go to him for anything, knowing I’ll be met with a hug and a listening ear. My dad taught me that it is a gift to be weird, to be yourself, to compromise nothing for your values. Maybe it’s cheesy, but he is totally my hero. 

That’s why I’m so excited for today’s newsletter: an illustrated Q + A with the man of the hour. Without further ado, meet my dad.

Thanks for reading — and tune into my “June favorites” newsletter at the end of the month to hear my dad’s recommendations. Until then, go listen to this album or eat a pickle. Or both!