Up Chuck

The U.S. presidential election is important, but it in no way competes in terms of fun with what could be the glorious race for the title of "proudest dad." Many may lay claim to the title. Each in his own way likely is and it would be moving to hear each of their campaigns for the honor. Could we have a multi-person tie?

Anyway, today is about (vice) presidential politics. So, while this isn't to take anything away from the many deservedly proud fathers around the world, and certainly not from the men who sired 75 percent of the Democratic and Republican tickets, it seems time — maybe the only and last time — to give a shoutout to Chuck Heath, refugee from the lower 48 and father of Alaska governor Sarah Palin. Biden, McCain and Obama fathers are glowing with pride from above, no doubt, but Chuck is nearly radioactive in the happiness he shares on earth that comes from his daughter's success.

Happy Pappy

What makes a dad really content?

Could it be some father-son bonding at fight night in Scranton, Penna.? Finding "balance" in Florida? Yammering on about intimate issues in front of tens, hundreds, thousands ... more ... as part of the "million man march" (bloggers are talking to you Sen. O)?

Maybe it is being a part of "take your father to work day"? Probably not, if you are actually there to rob the place ... and your daughter claims she didn't know you'd be dropping by.

Or, maybe it is just the birth of kids, more kids. That's what made Brad Pitt claim he was the "happiest father ever." Although being rich, famous, relatively untroubled by life, happy in work and married to Angelina Jolie probably don't harm the happiness quotient.