When we decided to return to Canada and miss the Paris Grand Slam, I realized that I would be home for Father's Day, for the first time in 8 years (as long as I have been a Dad). I have always been overseas playing in tournaments, and Father’s Day was always celebrated over the phone or via sending photos (like the one above) by email.

So I decided to make coming home a surprise for the kids who weren't expecting me for another two weeks. Ahren drove me home from the airport and helped me come up with the surprise...

I parked on the road in front of my house, and when my daughter Kayla answered the phone, I asked her if she liked it better when I was on the road or when I was at home.

She said that she preferred it when I was at home, but I insisted she loves it when I am on the road. After saying "on the road" a few more times, she finally clued in and looked out the window, where she saw me standing on the road! She dropped the telephone and the kids came running outside to finally say “Happy Father’s Day” in person.

It was great to see the kiddies, and thanks to Ahren for helping!

Oh, and Happy Father's Day to my Dad, who I managed to meet up with for lunch on my way home to Toronto via Montreal!