“Your children need your presence more than your presents.”

— Jesse Jackson

Every parent knows the value of being there for their children.

Every parent also knows the value of that special one on one time. Just a mom and a daughter, or a father and a son.

As my son and I begin a long weekend together, a belated birthday trip, and a chance just to hang out in Seattle, it comes to my mind that Zachary and I have been traveling on our birthdays together for seven years. Our birthdays fall on the 19th & 20th of May and for the past seven years we have always taken a trip together.

We’ve seen a few places, did a lot of things, have a few stories to tell and will always have memories to share.

As a busy parent, I know that it’s not always easy to find time to spend with your son or daughter, especially if you have more than one child.

But the memories you’ll make together will last a lifetime.

Today’s gift of time … Started our seventh annual father/son birthday trip. This year it’s in Seattle. Also handed out another McDonald’s gift card to a fellow who looked a little run down. … Just for fun, here’s Perry Como’s Seattle from 1969. Enjoy!