There’s just something about a dad. Maybe it’s the way he insists on manning the grill even when it’s 95 degrees outside. Or the way he claims not to hear you until the TV is muted—but can spot a crooked picture frame from across the room. Dads have a language all their own, a signature blend of dad jokes, weather commentary, and unsolicited car maintenance advice. And honestly? We love them for it.

Fatherhood in Middle Tennessee looks a little different for everyone—some dads are up before the sun, working long hours and still making it home in time to coach Little League. Others are the quiet type, showing love through oil changes, lawn mowing, and expertly packed coolers for summer road trips. Some are granddads filling in the gaps, stepdads who chose the job on purpose, or uncles and neighbors who stepped up without needing a title.

What ties them all together is the steady way they show up. Maybe not always with the right words, but always with an outstretched hand, a goofy grin, and a heart full of fierce, quiet pride.

They’re the bedtime storytellers, the driveway basketball champs, the piggyback ride experts. They're the ones who let us steer the lawn mower way too young, taught us how to tie a tie (or at least tried), and always seem to know when a tire looks “a little low.” They’re there with advice—even if we roll our eyes—and their belief in us is often louder than their words.

They’re also the ones yelling “Go Vols!” at the TV every fall Saturday, even if no one else is in the room. And don’t forget Sunday afternoons, where you’ll find them in their Titans gear, hoping this is the season and coaching from the couch like it’s their second job.

Sure, they may never ask for the spotlight. They might even wave off this whole article with a “don’t make a fuss.” But we’re making a fuss anyway—because dads deserve it.

So here’s to the dads of Middle Tennessee—the fishing buddies, the homemade pancake pros, the dance recital cheerleaders, and the high school graduation criers. You are loved. You are appreciated. And yes, you were right about needing to check the air filter.

Happy Father’s Day from all of us at Stay Positive News. May your socks be cozy, your naps uninterrupted, and your grill forever hot.