“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." In July 1969, Neil Armstrong’s famous quote was heard around the world as he climbed down the ladder of Apollo 11 and became the first human to step onto the moon. However, this is not an American history lesson, but a piece of my own personal history. My father, George Miliziano, was an Aeronautical Engineer and designed that very ladder the astronaut was making that small step from. I remember watching the big moment on our black-and-white television and glancing at my dad as he observed his hard work. I can still remember his face as he watched, proud that the ladder was structurally sound and able to withstand that historic moment.
Laureen, age 2, and her father, George.
He spent his 40-year career designing wings for fighter aircrafts like the F-15 and F-22, several planes for the 700-series of Boeing jumbo-jets, and many elite Gulfstream private jets. Something to be proud of, most definitely, but to my dad, as brilliant and talented as he was, all of that was just a job and not what he wanted to be known for.
Age 13, 8th Grade Graduation.
He grew up during the Great Depression in New York City, and was raised by Italian immigrant parents who worked hard to live the American dream. He shared many stories of growing up during these times. Even though it was tough, those were truly the best years of his life because his family grew close and learned to depend on each other. He understood what strength and perseverance looked like, what it meant to trust in God, and how to apply the values that formed him into the person he became. He passed that onto me, and I am so proud of his story.
Age 18 and excited to have joined the U.S. Air Force.
His love of God, family, and good Italian food (in that order) was all he really cared about, and he wanted to pass that on to the next generation. His strong faith in God was the only real legacy he wanted to leave to me and to my children. All that he accomplished by the world’s standards, impressive as it was, paled in comparison to his faith.
George Miliziano in his later years.
My dad passed away 8 years ago this month and how I wish he was here to meet his 7 great-grandchildren. This Father’s Day, his 7th great-grandchild, Abraham Noble Miliziano Skrivan, was baptized. During the baptismal liturgy, our pastor read Psalm 103, But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children; to such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. As I sat in the church pew witnessing that moment, I could almost hear my dad say, “Now, this is the legacy I want to be known for."
The History of Father's Day
Sonora Smart Dodd, of Washington State, was the first to organize and celebrate Father's Day in 1910. She wanted to honor fathers because of the love and admiration she had for her own father. However, is wasn't until 62 years later, in 1972, that it was recognized as an official holiday by the Nixon administration.
Ingredients:
2 lbs. Beef, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes 2 Bell Peppers, preferred color 1 Large Red Onion 15 Medium Wood or Metal Skewers
Marinade:
1 C. Olive Oil 2 Lemons, juiced 1 tsp. Salt 1 tsp. Black Pepper 4 Garlic Cloves, pressed 3 Tbsp. Fresh Dill, chopped 2 Bay Leaves
Directions:
Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl and stir to blend. Place cubed meat into the marinade bowl, stirring to coat well. Place the beef in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally. After the meat has marinated, slice vegetables into 1 1/2-inch pieces and alternate beef, peppers, and onion on the skewers. Grill over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, rotating every 2 to 3 minutes for even grilling. Cook until desired doneness is reached. Remove and allow to rest before serving.
Found in our cookbook, One-Hundred Eats by Wren & Willow
Wren & Willow is not short on great dads, but we wanted to highlight our most recent team member to join the ranks of fatherhood: Keith Osmonson. Keith has managed many beautiful jobs as Superintendent for the last two years. Keith lives in an early 1920s homestead on an acre and a half with his wife, Shelly, their 13 month old son, Aaron, and their two cats. As a family, they enjoy taking walks, going to yard sales, and playing board games. They've done a lot of work to their house and Keith can't wait to start putting Aaron to work!
To learn more about Keith, click here.
As we head into the hottest week of the year so far, we find ourselves spending more time outside. If you are anything like us, you are drawn to the grill to cook perfect steaks, burgers, and brats. If so, then this month's giveaway is for you! This cooler is full of the best tools, seasonings, and drinks to make you a true grill master and the envy of all of your grilling neighbors this summer.
This giveaway has now ended. Congratulations to Paige P. for winning this giveaway! Subscribe to our newsletter to be updated on future giveaways.
Photos by: Aleksander Akinshev
