Dear Aspen & Scarlet
Do you remember how you used to shout, “IT’S A BUDGET BLINDS VAN!” from your booster seats whenever you spotted one around town? It’s a memory that brings me so much pleasure—the two of you perched up front next to me in my work van, your eyes wide seeing out the windshield, your voices echoing with pure excitement.
When I bought that van, I was thinking purely logistically. I had just become a Budget Blinds franchise owner and was kicking off my “man-in-a-van-with-a-plan” model. I chose a RAM cargo van with a single-row front bench seat to pick you up from school without switching cars. Although I did not realize it then, this practical decision would lay the foundation for some of my most treasured memories.
Back then, we were starting a new chapter in our lives. I had spent five years as a stay-at-home dad and loved every minute, but I needed to re-enter the workforce, and nothing was lining up. Dozens of resumes sent with no callbacks. I knew one thing for sure—moving away or being an absentee dad wasn’t an option. And just when I needed it most, the universe stepped in and led me to Hank Beresin at First Street Business Brokers. That meeting changed everything. I learned business ownership was not only an option, but it meant I didn’t have to squeeze into a job that didn’t fit—I could build something that fit around us.
From that point on, the van became more than just a vehicle. It was our mobile headquarters for after-school adventures. On the days when I picked you up from school, I would finish work early, and we’d hit the playground, visit friends, or stroll around town, all with our Budget Blinds van parked visibly nearby. Thanks to your lofty booster seats and front bench seat, you two had a perfect view over the dashboard—and easy access to the steering wheel (and, more importantly, the radio). There was always a debate over whose turn to sit in the middle, hands on the wheel, pretending to drive while I controlled the gas pedal and brake.
Now, with you both growing into strong, beautiful young women—14 and 15 already!—I look back at those days with so much gratitude. That van, simple as it seemed, gave us time together that was completely ours. We laughed at bad knock-knock jokes in that van, sang to Jo-Jo Siwa in that van, and had heart-to-hearts in that van. It was a rolling memory-maker.
Today, our life looks different. That one van has turned into five, and my little business covers Lake Winnipesaukee and Southeast New Hampshire up to Southern Maine. And while you don’t shout out like you did back then when you spy a Budget Blinds van on the road, this memory is so vivid–it takes me right back to those days, reminding me of the bond we built, one drive at a time.
On this Father’s Day, I just sit quietly in my gratitude. Thank you for those giggles, for the singalongs, and for being my little copilots. I’m so proud of who you’re becoming, and I’ll always cherish where we’ve been.
With all my love,
Dad