Happy Papa Day to all the wonderful dads out there! Thank you for doing what you do and being who you are.

I had a great dad. He made me feel so loved, secure and wanted, I thought I could conquer the world. He was tall - 6 foot 3.5 inches and used to play national hockey. He was also very artistic and a mechanical engineer. But I know him best for his big bear hugs and spoiling me rotten.

My dad came from a royal, aristocratic family. He was the only boy with four sisters. He grew up in a huge home with tons of property and several dogs. He was fun-loving, playful and stubborn. He was also very gentle.

He died when I was 5 1/2. But he left me with such loving memories and a strong belief in the goodness of people and the possibilities in life. He was proud of me - fearless, confident and playful as I was back then. Writing about him helps me remember what matters. I guess it is time now to go out and do that!

I still love tall men. : )