Words Seaside Sue, Publisher & Owner
T here’s something about June, with Father’s Day and our annual Men to Watch issue, that makes me pause and think about the men who have quietly shaped my life – not through grand gestures, but simply by being there.
My Dad was never a man of many words. He didn’t sit us down for heartfelt talks or openly show emotion, but we never questioned how deeply he loved us. Some of my favourite memories of him are the simplest ones – early mornings fishing, afternoons clay shooting, wandering through the forest, or just sitting side by side in comfortable silence. We didn’t have to say much. Looking back now, I realize those quiet moments were his way of telling us everything we needed to know.
My brother Dave, the oldest among three sisters, has always been one of my constants. There’s an unspoken understanding between us that’s hard to explain – maybe because he’s so much like Dad: steady, protective and dependable. He’s always been there for me, never needing many words to show he cares.
And then there’s my son. Being his mom is the greatest privilege of my life. Watching him grow into such a kind, thoughtful, caring man fills my heart in ways I can barely put into words. No matter how old he gets, a part of me will always see the little boy I held onto so tightly. I couldn’t be prouder of who he has become. We still have a special word we share: tuckinoff; it was a word that just happened one night when I was tucking him into bed.
And to the close male friends who have stood beside me through life’s harder seasons – thank you. Through heartbreak, challenges and moments when life felt especially heavy, your friendships have meant more than you probably know.
These puppies may have already found a family, but there are many animals waiting for their forever homes at www.victoriahumanesociety.com.
Photo Janis Jean
