June 18th, 2018

Happy Father’s Day

by Terri Libenson

Apologies for the delay in posting. It’s been a busy, busy season. I was away for about half of it. 

I’m back now, (happily) chained to my desk, and ready to start a new entry. In honor of Father’s Day, I’d like to make it all about Rob. He’s Jill’s rock, glue, and straight man to her escapades. Poor guy puts up with a lot.

Here’s a fun then/now. My very first Father’s Day strip from 2006. (Yes…I cringe.)

This was based on a true event. Back when I was nine months pregnant with my older daughter, my husband had appendicitis. I took him to the hospital, and of course everyone thought we were there because of ME. Mike was pale as a sheet and in horrible pain, and nurses were asking what I needed. 

That one kinda wrote itself. But it sums up Mike’s — and Rob’s — life as a dad ever since: always being upstaged. And taking it with grace and humor.

Back to the strips — I’d like to think my writing and art skills have improved since that first one. Here’s today’s feature:

Also based on true events, but more self explanatory. 

I’d like to add one more from last year:

I’m including this one because it’s also 100% based on my husband, who is happy just to relax and enjoy some quiet time at home. He’d rather be out of the spotlight than deal with a big fuss. So frustrating! 

If you’re wondering, yes — Rob is essentially my husband, but with notable differences. Rob is a logical, practical IT guy, who tries to keep Jill’s head out of the clouds and her feet on the ground. That’s also true about Mike. However, Rob tends to be the straight man in my strip. In reality, my husband is more extroverted, talkative, and “the funny one” in person (not always intentionally). 

He is also extremely proud of his family, and lets everyone know it. Same as Rob.

So here’s to Mike, Rob, and all the other extraordinary dads out there, fictional and real. Happy Father’s Day!