Father now and then...

Today is one of the first Father's Days of our new millennium.
Fathers of 1900 didn't have it nearly as good as fathers of today;
but they did have a few advantages:


1.
In 1900, fathers prayed their children would learn English.

Today, fathers pray their children will speak English.


2.
In 1900, a father's horsepower meant his horses.

Today, it's the size of his minivan.


3.
In 1900, if a father put a roof over his family's head, he was a success.

Today, it takes a roof, deck, pool, and 4-car garage. And that's just the vacation home.


4.
In 1900, a father came home from work to find his wife and children at the supper table.

Today, a father comes home to a note: "Jimmy's at baseball, Cindy's at gymnastics, I'm at adult-Ed, Pizza in fridge."


5.
In 1900, fathers and sons would have heart-to-heart conversations while fishing in a stream.

Today, fathers pluck the headphones off their sons' ears and shout, "WHEN YOU HAVE A MINUTE.."


6.
In 1900, a happy meal was when Father shared funny stories around the table.

Today, a happy meal is what Dad buys at McDonald's.


7.
In 1900, when fathers entered the room, children often rose to attention.

Today, kids glance up and grunt, "Dad, you're invading my space."


8.
In 1900, fathers threatened their daughters suiters with shotguns if the girl came home late.

Today, fathers break the ice by saying, "So...how long have you had that earring?"


9.
In 1900, fathers pined for the old school, which meant a one-room, red-brick building.

Today, fathers pine for the old school, which means Dr J and Mickey Mantle.


10.
In 1900, fathers were never truly appreciated.

In 2001, fathers are never truly appreciated.