Father’s Day 2026
Dads. Famous for their jokes, unbothered fashion sense, and unashamed ruling of the home thermostat. They’re dependable, wise, and goofy. For many of us, our dads influence much of our persona. Maybe it’s in the small things, like how we take our coffee or our favorite comfort tv show, or the big ones, like how we connect with the people around us or an adventurous spirit. Dad helps shape us and passes down some of his own traits along the way. Some of the most charming parts or us might be borrowed from him. Could be the rich color of our hair or the annoying, sarcastic sense of humor we ironically developed. Being loved by our dad leaves evidence behind. This year, in honor of Father’s Day, we asked our staff to reflect on those little inheritances from Dad and share why they are special.
Besides physical characteristics (I’ve always resembled him more with hazel eyes and brown hair), my dad has passed down a stack of traits to me. We both love green tea, long walks, having dessert at the end of the night, playing croquet, popcorn, and Rack-o. In my adulthood, I’ve noticed more and more the quiet similarities we share. I take on most things in life with determination, dedication, and heart. Looking in the mirror now, I realize much of that is a reflection of who my dad taught me to be and the example he set for me as a little girl. My dad is one of the most gentle and kind people I know. He has always wowed me with the way he lives his life: humble, thoughtful, and kind. I love how countercultural this type of fatherhood is. Our shared approach to life is so special to me because it’s a legacy that will hopefully outlive us. It’s also such a testament to the amazing man he is. If his own parents could see a glimmer of the way he loves his kids, they would be so proud.
P
.S. My dad also gave me the confidence to wear denim on denim HA”
- Marissa, Libertyville Café
“My 70s (skip the 80s) and 90s music taste! I think I tried to claim it was bad all my life but it in fact all came rushing back full circle. He indirectly helped me make the perfect Tala playlist! (Compliments all year round 😉)”
- Cal, Libertyville Café
“My dad has passed many traits down to me, and as I get older, I realize how similar we actually are, from being picky about food (he’s the only person I can share a very cooked steak with) to always being willing to split things on the menu. Most importantly, I get my love for meeting new people and traveling from him. When I was younger, I used to get embarrassed by how easily he could strike up conversations with strangers, and now, as an adult, I realize I do the exact same thing, and it is one of my favorite traits that my dad and I share. Our shared love for people and new experiences has led to so many great memories together. My parents always taught me that having new experiences is important, even if it means taking a risk, and I’m incredibly grateful for that mindset. I’m a lucky gal!”
- Rachel, Marketing Manager
“I can’t deny how much I am my father’s daughter. My eyes are blue like his, and I got his height. Plus, we have the same taste in everything: food/taste palate, hobbies (like gardening), and overall style. I love being tall and having blue eyes!! My mom has hazel and my sister has brown, so I’m glad I got to inherit his blue eyes. And honestly most of my personality can be traced back to my dad, and I’m better for it!”
- Maya, Highwood Café
“I would say that my dad and I look the most similar in our family. More importantly, my dad has always been a super hard worker! It’s fun to me that we look very similar, but also my dad has shown me what hard work looks like and the value doing a job or task well!”
- Brent, Production
Marissa Cummings
On staff at our Libertyville café, Marissa loves befriending customers and making the perfect cup of coffee. When not behind the bar, she is usually exploring new coffee shops, curled up with a good mystery book and a warm miel in hand.