Hero of the Week

As you know I started this column a few weeks back in response to the continuous violence that we witness on our nightly news. I thought it was time instead to report about the people who make an impact everyday; the people who don't wait for a pat on the back, a thank you, or even a "nice going." It is those values that make them hero's and worthy of a spot on Mommy Maestro's blog.

I had mentioned earlier that there may be weeks when this column is not published. Despite my efforts, I do fall behind on current events from time to time. This week was a perfect example. But alas, it struck me while having a conversation with my Mom. So in light of Father's Day, I'm nominating my Step-Dad Alex Bongart for my Hero of the Week.

Some people don't like the term Step. They look at it as some demotion. No matter how hard they try, they will never be your biological anything. I on the other hand use it with great pleasure when I speak of Alex, because to me, he stepped-up to the challenge.

Alex didn't come into my life until my Senior year of high school. I was pretty much set in my ways by then. Who would have guessed the impact he would make in my life.

When I first met him, he smoked a pipe filled with Cherry tobacco. I'm not a fan of smokers, but there was something sweet about that scent. He also had honest eyes. I told my Mom that he was a keeper, and around 4 years later, they were married.

I think this man has a multitude of goodness within him. Not only did he purchase my prom gown for me when my mom could not afford one, he actually helped me pick one out. He was there for all my graduations, and along with my brother; he walked me down the isle on my wedding day. When he got the news that I was going into labor 2 and a half months early, he left his job, stood at my bedside and tried to assure me everything would be all right.

Everything was all right. Today I have two lovely boys. Each are affectionately known as "Pop-Pop's Little Buddies." They cherish him just as much as I do.

Alex can always be counted on for an extra hand. When we purchased our pool, it was Alex who volunteered to help my husband build our patio. As I look around my property, I am reminded of the many projects that had Alex's signature on it at some point.

I will be forever grateful that Alex found his way into my Mom's life and into our families hearts.

I hope you are all as lucky as I am. Be sure to wish your own father's Happy Father's Day this weekend.