I remember quiet times with my father. Yes, quiet times, for there were never many words spoken whenever we got together - there was no need. My father came from the "old school" where deeds were done to show affection.

As an adolescent, he bought me my first gun with money he earned while fishing in Labrador. I did not care that it was a pellet gun because it was still a gun and I could use it to practice. I would wait four more years before I would get a 12-gauge shot gun. Now, many years later, I have come to realize that he could have bought many other things with that money but he did not. He chose to spend it on me and I've thought about that many times.

Our trouting trips were the most memorable times I had with my father. Often we would leave shortly after lunch and we wouldn't return until well after dark. We always took turns carrying our catch and I would always get to bring the trout into the house whether it was my turn or not.

I am a father now and on occasion I take my own children to see their grandfather. They spend a lot of time together. My children have many questions for their grandfather and he eagerly answers them. Their times together are interesting, enjoyable and definitely precious.

I never got the privilege to see or to spend any time with either of my grandfathers. My grandfathers died many years before I was born. So I feel that I got to miss out on having a relationship with them. That is why I feel it is important for my children to spend times with their grandfather - it is something I did not get to do.

The third Sunday of June will be Father's Day. You should spend some time thinking about your father and, if you can, you should give him a telephone call. A simple hello may mean a lot to him.

Some of you are fathers and you will be talking to your own children on Father's Day. For some, your children may even visit. Whatever the situation, try to enjoy this day.

Garry.