TO ALL 'DADS' IN THE WORLD :
The Antarctic Emperor Penguin is possibly the supreme "Dad" in creation.
As soon as 'Mom' lays the egg, she transfers the egg to 'Dad' –
along with the complete care for up to three months,
whilst she goes to sea in search of food to replenish her body.
So during the worst weather conditions on earth –
with wind chills as cold as -76°F and blizzards of 124 mph -
'Dad' balances this fragile penguin egg on his web feet,
further insulating it with his body feathers -
ensuring that it never touches the ice or is exposed to hazardous cold and wind.
'Dad' cannot waddle freely, but can only scoot slowly about,
as he must rotate within the huddled pack, from inside to outside,
simply to endure the cold and winds.
When the chick hatches, 'Dad' continues total care and feeding,
still under these harsh conditions – until 'Mom's' return.
Additionally, as 'Dad' is unable to feed during this period, he loses about 30 pounds.
In so many similar or parallel ways,
Human 'Dads' protect - particularly in younger days -
Their off-springs from hunger and need
And harsh elements that too often impede,
Hoping they may thrive and most certainly know
Life and laughter, and the sunshine's warm glow.
In thanks for our 'Emperor Dads' many measures,
We "wish" a few special objects
Of comfort and great pleasure!
'A THRONE for HIS SEAT' :
George III Mahogany Framed Library Open Armchair
England, c1770
'A STOOL for HIS FEET' :
Charles II Upholstered Oak Stool
England, c1660, Provenance : Doughton Manor, Cotswold District
'A FINE FORK FOR HIS MEAT' :
Scarce George III Hanoverian Silver Meat Fork
John Lambe, London, 1787
'And A COLD GLASS for HIS BARLEY & WHEAT' :
George II / III Engraved Airtwist Stem Ale Glass
England, Mid-18th Century
'A BEAUTIFUL BOX for HIS BILLS' :
William & Mary Walnut & Olivewood Oyster Veneered & Marquetry
Document / Lace Box, England, c1690
'ONE WITH DANCING LADIES (ooh-lala) for HIS PILLS' :
George I/II Engraved Silver Snuff Box
England, c1720-1725
'A ROLLING RACK for HIS BOOKS' :
Regency Mahogany Canterbury
England, c1815-20
'And A FINE VIEW of the HARBOR ... for HIS 'LOOKS ' :
"Night On Front Street - Effects Of The Rain" (Philadelphia)
Anton P. Albers Jr., American / Pennsylvania, 1908 - 1995
ALL THESE WISHES JUST TRYING TO SAY,
THANK YOU ...
AND A VERY HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!
Emperor Penguin Images, Alamy, by lease
Inventory Photography : Millicent F. Creech
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