Dry, Three Olives? Thanks For The Life Lesson, Pop

My father taught me how to mix martinis at the age of 11. This meant that at cocktail hour, he could lounge on the couch while I served him an icy, dry vodka martini (three olives) and then relax as I played classical music on the piano. From his perspective, it's probably one of the most valuable things he ever taught me.

Earlier this week, I asked Patch Facebook followers about the most important thing their fathers taught them, and answers ranged from the endearing to the humorous to the cautionary. Read their fathers' lessons, then add your own in the comments section below.

• Shelley Klaner: My father taught me the value of hard work. He was a PR man and I was getting my journalism degree and he said Shelley best to go in PR that is where the money is. I said to my dad, "nope I want to be a writer." And now I write and do PR, but that was my dad pushing.
• Denise McKevitt Rasmussen: My father, Dick McKevitt, taught me to never quit and no matter how hard things might get to never lose your sense of humor. He also taught me that when all is said and done love is the only thing that matters. He also had the courage to show me that he was only human after all and that when you fail you pick yourself up and start all over again. Missing you so much everyday and especially on this coming Fathers Day.
• Tonya Tespa: My father Jerry Giordani taught always to do your best and to strive for more. To always be apart of your family no matter how bad it gets. To cherish them why they are here and know that life is too short so live it.
• Stephanie Brandelius: My dad Pierre taught me to appreciate where I live. Growing up in this area could be taken for granted but not when you are taught to appreciate its beauty and to take care of the land.
• Double Eagle Fitness: My Dad taught me awareness and safety. A little bit of paranoia is better than obliviousness.
• Dave McReynolds: My father taught me to be the best father to my Four sons. Thanks Dad!
• Lyn Nave Garrett: How to throw a frisbee. How to drive. How to change the oil in my car. How to be there when you're really needed.
• Laura Bertolli: How to change a tire. At age 16, when I got my license and he gave me a car to drive, before he would give me the keys, I had to change the tire. I've changed at least 10 tires in my lifetime and I say a little thank you to him every time! Plus if you can change your tire, it really impresses your children, your friends and your man!! lol
• Laura Roberts: My father taught me how to write. Every high school essay was "perused" by my father before I rewrote it (this was before word processing was required). Sometimes the sessions would go well, often times there would be tears or frustration - but I went on to be an English teacher myself (currently at Novato High School) so my father must have known what he was talking about.
• Jessica Taul: How to play softball. He was our towns girls softball coach and he was tough. I learned to try harder. Play harder. And always play to win.
• Novato Patch: On days when I had Dish Duty, I would cry and my dad would teach me how to "clean a kitchen in 15 minutes" by doing it for me. When I visit him or he visits me, I ask for a refresher lesson. -Tracey
• Lynn Shoop: My dad, Bill Duffin, taught me how to persevere. We are survivors and no matter how tough times get, we will pull through! Dip your shoulder and let it roll off, and work hard through the hard times because it will always get better!
• Jon Emery: My Father is a former Marine. He taught me respect, told me to be strong and watch my manners. Most of all he taught me to be proud of my country through good and bad times and always say thank you to a Veteran.
• Dora Lee: My father taught me to be honest. He told me about how he was valued by his employers because of his honesty and that he could be trusted, and this contributed to his success. I have found that without a doubt, honesty is the best policy in every area of life.