Tips on Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs + A Tribute to Our Good Men

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Behold two deep-fried, bacon-wrapped 
hot dogs. Frighteningly delicious!


In this post, Marc and I are 
sharing tips on making 
bacon-wrapped hot dogs, 
on the stove or on the grill...


As authors of the Coffeehouse Mysteries, Marc and I know the value of really good Joe! In that spirit, we hosted a special comment giveaway to celebrate Father's Day. 

We thank you all for sharing your past memories and thoughts...about a good man in your life. You wrote about fathers, husbands, grandfathers, stepdads and those you admired (or once admired and loved) as good fathers. 

GO TO THE VERY END OF THIS POST TO SEE ALL THE COMMENTS AND FEEL FREE TO ADD YOUR OWN...


And now for those hot dogs!

👇




Where the 
Danger Dogs Roam...

A Few Fun Foodie Facts

* Down Mexico way, the original Danger Dog (aka Tijuana Bacon Dog) is a bacon-wrapped, deep fried dog topped with grilled onions and hot chili. North of the border, this same barker is often topped with mayonnaise, and in Los Angeles, California, it’s known as a street dog.

* The Jersey Breakfast Dog is a bacon-wrapped hot dog that is deep fried until it’s curled or falling apart. Also called rippers, they're served with fried or scrambled eggs.

* A Chicago variation is the Francheezie, a jumbo hot dog split and stuffed with cheddar or Velveeta cheese before it’s wrapped in bacon and (oh, yes) fried. 



Cleo Coyle has a partner in
crime-writing—her husband.
Learn about their books
by clicking here and here.

Because we don’t own a deep fryer, my husband was forced to adapt and overcome—to borrow a motto from the Marines, a few of whom would probably enjoy this recipe, too, with a few good beers. 

And since summer and hot dogs go together so well, you can make these on your grill or your stovetop. We've included instructions for both. Whatever your preference, may you eat with bacon-wrapped joy! 

~ Cleo

🍴


To download this recipe in a 
Free PDF that you can print, 
save, or share, click here.

Click for free PDF.

Cleo's Tips for Making
Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs


Makes 6 servings 

Ingredients:

6 hot dogs 
6 slices bacon 
1 cup vegetable oil (we use canola oil) 
6 hot dog buns 
12 wooden toothpicks 


(Additional optional topping suggestions: grilled or raw onions, mayo, mustard, relish, chopped tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, etc.) 


Step 1—Slice the hot dogs (important)Slit each dog lengthwise. Don’t split the dogs in two, simply cut a deep slice. This cut will help the hot dog cook at the same fast pace as the bacon. It also will prevent the dog from bursting when it hits the hot oil. 

Step 2—Wrap with bacon: Take one slice of bacon, regular or thick cut, and tuck the end of the slice into the cut at the tip of the hot dog. Wrap the bacon around the hot dog, being careful to completely cover the hot dog with the bacon. When finished wrapping, tuck the opposite end of the bacon into the hot dog's slit. Secure both ends with dry toothpicks. See my photos below. 

(If grilling over charcoal, gas, or an open flame, be sure to soak the toothpicks in water for at least an hour before inserting into the dogs. This will prevent the toothpicks from burning. See more grilling notes below.) 

Step 3—Fry the dogs (*see grilling option below)Place about one inch of oil at the bottom of a skillet and heat at medium until the oil is shimmering and ready to smoke, about five minutes. (If using a deep fryer, set to 375° F.) When the oil is hot enough, quickly place 2 to 4 hot dogs into the oil. For best results, do not fry too many at one time. If pan frying, cook about three minutes on one side, then turn and fry for an additional four minutes. If using a deep fryer cook the hot dogs for about seven minutes. Remove from heat and drain on a paper towel. Serve warm on a bun and add your favorite condiments.


*GRILLING OPTION: To grill bacon-wrapped hot dogs, keep these notes in mind: (1) Soak the toothpicks in water for a good hour before inserting or they may burn up on your grill. Or use metal skewers instead of toothpicks and you won't have to worry. (2) The cooking time will be longer on the grill, about 6 to 8 minutes per side. You're watching for the bacon to cook through without burning.

F o o d i e
P h o t o s














Eat (and read) with joy!


New York Times bestselling author
of The Coffeehouse Mysteries and
Haunted Bookshop Mysteries



Cleo (Alice) with her husband Marc

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120 comments :

  1. I am very fortunate to have 2 special men in my life, my Dad and my SO. - rebe

    ReplyDelete
  2. My dad is the hardest working man I know. He made sure we had a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, and food on our table. I learned my excellent work ethic from him. I love your books and the recipe looks delicious. Thank you for this chance. aree

    ReplyDelete
  3. sher
    My father, who passed away with ALS, was a good father. He was only 64 yrs old and to be honest it help when the movie came about how Stephen Hawkins, who is till alive, has ALS. My father was a physical person and when he lost the use of his legs and had to rely on my stepmother to take him everywhere, I knew that he was very proud and this hurt. I had my youngest son and gave him my father's name when he was born. So I did have my son to help me through the process. He looks like my dad as well. I have fond memories of him taking us to the park when we were young, to baseball games, and always was in good spirits. A very strong wonderful person who is missed.

    ReplyDelete
  4. My older brother who passed away last year was a great father. He and his wife adopted a little girl from Paraguay. She is now a college grad with a masters degree, her first apartment, and has almost a year in at her first job.

    ReplyDelete
  5. My dad passed away in 1998, in fact he passed away one year one day after his older and only sister. My dad was in the Marines for 21 years and served in the Korean war and the Vietnam War (he was in Vietnam in 1965). His favorite dis was raw fries (thinly sliced potatoes and onions fried in a cast iron skillet, he loved them with kielbasa, so every year on his birthday and father's day I make the dish for the family. It is our way to celebrate a very special man who left us too soon. vlhc

    ReplyDelete
  6. My dad worked from the age of 14 on to provide for his widowed mother and 5 younger siblings. He built up a business from sheer will and grit, had poor health and died young. He never gave up. saub

    ReplyDelete
  7. My dad is the best! He only had girls (3) and he was always playing with us and doing things with us. He was a teacher and I know how tiring that job is! He still made time to play games (longggggg Monopoly games) and do fun things with us. He sacrificed a lot for us too. chri...@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  8. I lost my dad a few years ago, and every Father's Day seems a bit incomplete. However, I have a zillion memories to try and fill the day: his animal pancakes, trips to the ballpark, an extra twenty for treats, my trike, my bike, my car, my stubborn attitude, my sense of humor, my love for burgers and potato salad, my hatred for stupid people... My dad! Miss him, but I have a zillion memories!
    kat8762@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  9. I have quite a few special men in my life, my dad who died when I was 13, but will always live on in my heart. My Hubby, a great Dad & Papa, my brother and all my nephews, who are all great Dads!!!! pft.g

    ReplyDelete
  10. My father and my father-in-law served proudly in World War II. Even though we heard their stories our whole lives,it wasn't until they passed on that we realized what a great sacrifice they made for their country and freedom.

    Today we worry more than ever that our country will remain free with liberty and justice for all. In honor of our fathers, on their special day we should try to be more tolerant and understanding of all of our differences.

    This is what makes us great. This is what we fought for and continue to fight for -- so our children and their children can live where we are free to express opinions, worship as we like, without fear of retaliation. Thanks to all dads every where who continue to lead by their example.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I lost my sweet, wonderful Daddy five years ago on the day before Father's Day. So the day is bittersweet for me. I have a lot of wonderful memories with my Dad. He took me fishing, to the Red's baseball games, and also instilled in me my love of reading.


    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oops forgot the first four of my email. dr.ol

      Delete
  12. This past week I had to have a log talk with my 4 year old son as to why some of the kids in his class have two dads. Knowing that he was really asking about my two dads, I explained that some children have one dad that helped their mom make them and another one who takes care of them. I know that holds true for me as well. I am blessed to have the most amazing step dad, who has taken care of me for most of my life. He is always there for me whenever I need him. utak

    ReplyDelete
  13. My father didn't raise me, but when I met the man I call Papa, he took me in and gave me all his love. Until he came along (in my young adult life) I was distrusting of men. In that respect, he saved me. I met my husband as he was a friend of my Papa's. I've never looked back...Love my Papa, love my baby's daddy, love the father's who love and give to their families...love, love, love! Happy Father's Day Daddies!

    Jessie Jsto

    ReplyDelete
  14. I have two amazing men in my life. My husband, Tom, the Father of our now three young adult children and our son, Joshua, who is the Father of our granddaughters, Gianna and “Angel” Lilyanna grace. However far the journey, both provide one of life's greatest gifts; the love that fathers give. Throughout time, both, are there for our family presenting as calm, steady, strong, and wise men, confident in the face of difficulty, full of optimism. Tom and Josh are loved dearly. serv

    ReplyDelete
  15. I have both a great dad and a wonderful grandfather. My grandfather, who is 97 years old, fought in WWII. He is the epitome of the perfect Southern gentleman. My entire life, I've not heard him say a harsh word to anyone (or about anyone). He's always kind, patient, and gentle. Animals gravitate toward him, knowing they'll be treated both lovingly and with respect. I have never met another man like him in my life. He continues to provide me with inspiration, every single day.

    ReplyDelete
  16. brom (first four of email)
    The last father's day with my grandad. He was never a big talker but that year it was an exception. We talked for hours over coffee about anything and everything. I learned a lot about him I never knew

    ReplyDelete
  17. My Daddy was the smartest man I know, a voracious reader, and had a the funniest, dry sense of humor. I miss him every day! My husband, shares many of those characteristics with my dad! He also loves books, but he prefers to audiobook his books! He is a great dad, has a good sense of the absurd, and he is a coffee fanatic! I am blessed to have/have had these great fellas in my life!

    ReplyDelete
  18. I am missing my father this weekend. He's been gone eight years. I think of him often, especially on those Dad Days--Christmas, his birthday, Veterans Day. I am thankful for the life he led, and that I was blessed to have him as my father. Happy weekend, all.
    moch

    ReplyDelete
  19. donn
    I think of my dad every single day. He has been gone 3 years now and I miss him so much. My dad was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Every time I see I red cardinal in my backyard I believe that he is looking down and smiling at me.

    ReplyDelete
  20. I am missing my dad this week-- he died in Dec ( my mom passed in March 3 months later). My dad and I did not speak for a few years cause I did not think he liked me let alone loved me. I had breast cancer in 2014. When I told my father, he cried--I sat there with him and thought oh my he really does love me and he never stopped- all those years I wasted and he really did love me. We talked since then every day or at least several times a week; and I was just getting to know him again as the fun loving wonderful dad he was when I was a kid. He was taken away from me again unfortunately too soon. I still have a voice mail from him that says I love you very much! He could always make a crying child laugh in seconds and always befriended the skittish dogs. When we went for a walk in the woods when I was little I fell feet first into cold water he gave me his dry socks and carried me on his shoulders the rest of the way home. When I got a "D" or a 2 in second grade in writing he drew me dot-dot characters had me trace them and by fifth grade I was teaching other kids how to write.

    ReplyDelete
  21. I especially enjoy Father's Day now with my kids ~ it is so wonderful to see them with my honey (their dad). They are looking forward to giving him his gift tomorrow, including their homemade cards. My guy never looked better than as daddy to our girls.

    I love getting your newsletter (brooke811 at ymail.com)

    ReplyDelete
  22. I was very fortunate and very grateful to have had a Dad who was very hard-working and who loved his three daughter's to the max. I then found and married a man much like my Father who became an awesome Dad to his two children and after almost 53 years of marriage, to his two now adult children and his three beautiful grandchildren. Our adopted son had a lot of challenges and so did we as a result, and our daughter had serious medical problems for her first ten years, but my husband held everything together all these years with rarely ever having any complaints about all of the responsibilities and the stress. Having a husband be the wonderful Dad he was, and still is, and such a fabulous grandfather as well, makes me so proud that I am tearing up as I write this. I will endow as I need to go give him a big hug and make sure he knows how much happiness, securirity he has given to me all of these years. Thank you so much.

    Cynthia
    Ceblain

    ReplyDelete
  23. My grandfather was like a dad to me. He took me fishing, played baseball with me and taught me how to handicap at the racetrack. So many fond memories. He was a Brooklyn native and loved the Mets. I miss you Pop! (He passed away in 1987 at 83 years old though he only looked 65). Email: DogM

    ReplyDelete
  24. My father figure is the best man in the world who makes sure I know I am loved every day by just being there. He listens, cares, and shares in every up and down of life without judgment, only with love and a cup of coffee. khar

    ReplyDelete
  25. My Dad was a great role model in all ways. He taught us to work hard and still make time for your family. He's been gone 16 years and I still miss him every day.
    diannekc8(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  26. amae My husband and my son's father is a good man, but very hard to get presents for: he always has a well-researched specifications in mind for anything he would like.But this year Chun Woo and I have Sekrit Plans. We got him as special plunge barbeque thermometer he wanted, when I got email putting it on sale. Then, this morning we made beignets for him, and tomorrow we will Astonish him with speical spices for making rubs.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Vick....my dad has been gone for 22 years this years but I remember how much he loved getting caramel candy from the fannie mae candy stores..

    ReplyDelete
  28. Werd.. I don't know what i would do without my pop in my life. He does so much for me and is always so supportive. He's shown me what unconditional love feels like.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Every time my husband and I take the kids out fishing I remember all the times my dad took me out fishing when I was growing up. I love to see both my son and daughter having fun fishing with us. We have not had a chance for my dad to come to FL and fish with us yet, hopefully next year. I love being able to share my precious memories of fishing with my dad with my kids and that they are making memories fishing with their dad. It is especially great when we catch fish!
    I am a subscriber.
    your

    ReplyDelete
  30. When I was a little girl, I was always full of questions. My Father was always there, to answer them. He taught me the names of all of his tools, and showed me how they worked. He even let me try a few. He taught me how to paint the proper way, as well as how to trim shrubs with lopping shears and electric ones as I grew up. He also taught me about sports, mainly Hockey, and we sat through many a Red Wing game together, as well as many WWII movies, since that was the war he served and got a Bronze Star for his service. Work did take him away quite a bit, and I had a Cousin, who was like a second Father. He would pick me up, and I got to spend time with him, his Girlfriend, and my 2nd Cousin. They were great times, because I learned so much from him. He taught me everything from the Constellations, to Horseback riding, to Skiing, to making Suet Cakes from scratch for the Wild Birds in the Winter in metal coffee cans!! I adored being around him, and he was a wealth of information!! I just touched upon the things he taught me, and that I did with him!! Then I got married, and my Husband has been my rock and soul mate. He has taught me how to believe in myself. I've learned all about camping, and outdoor life. He's shared my love of animals, and love of life. Since I now have my share of health issues that have disabled me, he's the person that gives me the strength to keep going, and to not even think about my problems most of the time. He's been the love of my life since I first laid eyes on him, and we've been together over 30 years now. Father's Day is a hard day for both of us. He lost his Father as a boy, and my Father passed away 2 years ago, suddenly, so it's still hard for me. For those who still have their Fathers, give them a hug and tell them you love them. If you're not close, try to make an effort to get close again. You'll live to regret it. Have a Happy Father's Day!! Prob

    ReplyDelete
  31. My dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 1993 & was told he only had 13 months to live. My husband & I were going to wait to have our wedding in November 1994, but once we found out my dad was sick, we moved our wedding to December 1993. I wanted my dad to be there. My dad asked us, if we moved our wedding up, because of him & we told him no. We told him, that we decided we did not want to wait, but that was a lie of course. He ultimately passed away in September 1994. My husband was sad, because he did not have that much time with him & we miss him everyday.

    ReplyDelete
  32. My dad flew air-to-sea rescue in WWII, we take the opportunity to honor him all season long! - rsbr

    ReplyDelete
  33. I never knew my Dad, he died when I was very young. As a young widow my Mom was a pariah and ignored by his family , so were we kids. His family of multiple Brothers did not want to be involved in my life so I had zero men in my life ever. Now it seems infinitely sad to me and their loss. They let a sad grieving little girl grow up without any support. Seasc.

    ReplyDelete
  34. pump I would like to thank my Dad for always being there for me and my kids. I miss you Dad and wish you were still with us. Happy Father's Day.


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  35. I miss his humour, when my boyfriend asked for my hand in marriage my father's reply was Oh good, now you can buy her shoes! I have very narrow feet and shoes could only be purchased in one shop in London and were very expensive.

    ReplyDelete
  36. jkra Father's Day was like Thanksgiving for us. Dad loved the turkey & trimmmings of the Nov holiday. That and Peach Pie were our traditional fare. No barbaque for us. AFter lunch we would all watch the NASCAR race from Michigan. Another tradition. For several years after we lost Dad, I continued the meal tradition. Our son now has Father's Day at his home and of course alterred the menu to suit my husband. NASCAR no longer has a race in Michigan on Father's Day. I miss Dad even more since the traditions have gone with him.

    ReplyDelete
  37. My father was a farmer and we lived on a dirt road 1.5 miles from the nearest gravel road. I went to a country school which was 2 miles away. When it rained, I had to walk to school. I remember my Father walking me to school and along the way, we picked violets that grew in the ditches. I gave those violets to the teacher when I got to school. That is one of my favorite memories of my Father. dbah

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marc and I want thank YOU ALL for leaving such beautiful comments. We read EVERY SINGLE ONE, and we wish we could give you all a prize (maybe someday we'll be able to do this)! In the meantime, we can only give one prize today. The winner was selected by a random number generator. And the winner is...

      Dianne Bahn!

      Congrats, Dianne!
      To everyone else, we hope you will stay tuned to this blog and our Coffeehouse Mystery Newsletter for more contests in the future. Until then, we wish you all the very best.

      xooxo
      ~ Cleo
      Coffeehouse Mystery.com
      “Where coffee and crime are always brewing…”
      Cleo Coyle on Twitter
      www.CleoCoyleRecipes.com

      Delete
  38. sslov - My Dad was very quiet but I always new he loved me. He loved to fish and hunt. And for a long time after he passed we had white bass that he had frozen for us. My sons still talk about how good Grandpa's fish was. My favorite picture of him in his hunting gear that was taken by my cousin who had tied a wild turkey to a stake with a sign that said "Think you can hit this one Uncle Phil?" He hadn't been able to bag a turkey that year. It's been twenty years since he passed away and I still miss him every day.

    ReplyDelete
  39. robs
    My husband is such an amazing father to my 2 girls. On weekends they can be found out hiking different trails, looking for waterfalls, or riding their motorcycles. They started riding with him as soon as their feet could touch the pedals and now each have 2 motorcycles of their own. He is spending Father's Day riding down the Continental Divide with my youngest daughter (21) on their motorcycles and next year plans to ride to Alaska with both of them. The girls even help him with motorcycle maintenance and change their own oil and tires.

    ReplyDelete
  40. From email moon:
    I have many amazing memories of Dad but one of my favs is when we would go camping. Dad would get as many friends and kids (kids of friends and friends of his kids) to go camping as possible. While this always made for great fun and lots of noise there was a time of day when it started quiet. One of my favorite times was to get up just after dawn. Dad and I would usually be the first awake and he would always start a big pot of coffee brewing over the campfire. Coffee is truly a gift from the Gods but there is nothing to compare to the taste of fresh coffee brewed over a campfire first thing in the morning. I can almost smell it now. It was a time that made me feel closer to Dad too. Oh it wouldn't be long once the coffee smell wafted to all the tents and the chaos would begin for another glorious day but we'd had our peaceful perfect moment. Dad has passed on years ago but I think of him everyday.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Pat (patdupuy@yahoo.com)June 19, 2016 at 2:00 PM

    I miss my dad. He passed away a year and a half ago. He'd had a major stroke in 2000 that left him with aphasia. His deafness grew worse over the years so it was doubly frustrating for him and his family to communicate. He had a great sense of humor. I still see him, having just gotten home from work, doing his impression of I'm Telling You Now (Freddie and the Dreamers) complete with Freddie dance. You youngsters look that one up. Patd

    ReplyDelete
  42. The older I
    get The more
    I realize how Little time I had with my father. He still left me with a lifetime of memories.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Loved playing cards with my Grandpa and doing crossword puzzles with my Dad. Miss them both. ange

    ReplyDelete
  44. We are pregnant with our first child and it is amazing to see how dedicated my husband already is to the baby. I feel so lucky that my baby will have such a strong supportive male figure in his or her life! "rebe" are the first four characters of my email address.

    ReplyDelete
  45. I was a single mom who found the love of her life when my daughter was a toddler. I feel incredibly lucky that my guy leaped into being a dad with the same sense of fun and joy that he brings to everything else. wend

    ReplyDelete
  46. My dad's ideal meal Hot dogs with bacon that and s*#! on a shingle. He is an old school Joe.

    ReplyDelete
  47. My Dad, Ed Howard, (of Blessed Memory,) was a WW ll and Korean Conflict vet. He served his country, and was married to my Mom (also of Blessed memory,) for 59 yrs, raising 3 kids and working from age 9 to age 78. He taught me about hard work, education, and not taking "any guff" from anyone and standing up for myself. He was a loving father, and I miss him every day. I lost him in 2004. Thank you Dad, for your service to this country, and for being a wonderful Dad.

    ReplyDelete
  48. jo.ann This father's day my husband and I are at my son's whom we haven't been together to celebrate father's day in 23 years. I have my list of jobs to do as I do every time we visit. I am able to help him with these jobs because I was taught by my father how to handle power tools and do repairs around the house and yard. I am so thankful that my father took the time to teach this daughter things I can pass on to my son.

    ReplyDelete
  49. kchi While I have many wonderful stories of my Dad, I'm going with the most recent Father's Day. Today I made the bacon-wrapped hotdogs from the recipe for him. He said, "These are good. Why'd you wait until I was 85 to make them?" That's my Dad, and I sure do love him.

    ReplyDelete
  50. tcan
    Today we celebrated Father's Day with VBS at church--songs, Bible story, crafts and games (including a well-aimed water balloon for the pastor) followed by outdoor worship in our pavilion with children leading the songs, a skit by an adult Sunday School class, sermon, then a meal of pulled pork, baked beans, 7 layer lettuce salad, apple sauce and a variety of desserts. Lovely weather and a great worship service. My father-in-law and husband were there along with many great fathers and their children.

    ReplyDelete
  51. The most important life lessons I learned from my father were that anything worth doing is worth doing well and it is only a mistake if you don't learn from it. Thank you Dad! I still miss you after 35 years

    ReplyDelete
  52. My Dad was an amazing man -- he raised 5 daughters and was a wonderful, very patient and loving Dad. Your recipe reminds me of Sunday's after church when Dad would make "his sandwich," which was an open-faced sandwich with onions, tomatoes, bacon and cheese that he would melt under the oven broiler. He always cooked his bacon in the oven under the broiler, and I never saw him cook it in a skillet or frying pan. He liked all of his meat cooked medium rare, and said that he liked to hear it Moo -- my mom, on the other hand, liked hers very well done, almost charred! All of us girls grew up to like it medium rare!

    ReplyDelete
  53. I was so luck to have a wonderful Grandpa and Dad. Both men were very supportive and nurturing. I miss them both daily, and am sad my son will not have his grandpa around while he is still growing up. But, I am blessed to see many of those same qualities in my husband in all his interactions with our son.

    ReplyDelete
  54. I lost my dad several years ago. but my husband has become a fine example of what a dad should be and I see it every day. 6186

    ReplyDelete
  55. There have been several men, including my dad, who have mentored me, taught me how to sail, from whom I've learned life skills, and who passed on some sizzling expletives! (I don't say them, but I have thought them!) Best of all are the tough-minded military philosophies I've used from men, such as "adapt and overcome" and "embrace the suck". There's no sissie excuse to not step up. I wish a few were still with us so I could say thank you for their love, honor, stoicism and courage.

    ReplyDelete
  56. My dad is in a nursing home now , I couldn't provide the care he needs at my home any more. It's a very hard , emotionally wrenching day, feeling like I let down the man who worked to provide for me his whole life . He still greets me with a smile though , and never makes me feel like I am letting him down ! kathambre@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  57. So many wonderful men have enriched my life. Who was the best? Hard to say. Would it be my great grandfather, who walked 3 miles in 90 degree heat just to see me for my birthday. How about several of my uncles who always had time for their nieces and nephews to play games or just talk. My grandfather comes to mind for his hours of rocking me back to sleep after a bad dream.Of course my husband of almost 50 years and the wonderful father of our three sons,has always been there with much love and support. I miss the ones who have passed,but most of all I miss my father. He was always there for me. I carry his common-sense knowledge, humor and love with me always. He taught me many life skills which I have passed on to my sons. I think of him often, and always with a smile on my face. Linda Rosa mrusma02@comcast.net

    ReplyDelete
  58. I knew from the first year we were together that my husband was going to be a great dad. Kids seem drawn to him, and he is so wonderfully patient with them. I always have said he's far more nurturing than I! Our kids and I are so lucky to have him!

    ReplyDelete
  59. This year I got remarried to a wonderful man and that means he became a step dad!! The unsung hero, step dads work so hard to fill that role and Ryan does it so well!! So blessed to have him in our lives!

    ReplyDelete
  60. I really miss my Daddy! He and I were so close-a Daddy's girl I was! He loved to garden and so do I. Sometimes I feel his spirit when I am gardening.

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  61. My Dad was the best! I got my work ethic from him and I knew he loved me unconditionally. DUTC

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  62. I'm proud to have my brother in my life. My daughter's father isn't around but my brother fills in and he is such a loving supportive uncle. My dad is also wonderful and has taught me much about love and how to make my way in life. email..tige

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  63. My biological father deserted us when I was six. My mom's brother, my Uncle Bill, stepped in and saw to it that we had Christmas, birthday, and Easter presents. Most of all, however, he made sure that I knew that all men weren't like my father. He taught me how to be independent, and how to admit to my mistakes. He taught me, by example, to be loving and giving. He once stopped his car when he saw a homeless man who often was at the same location every day. He saw that this man had no shoes, so Uncle Bill took off his own shoes and gave them to the man. Uncle Bill wore some old, worn shoes until he could afford to buy himself new ones. He died 20 years ago and I still miss him. His favorite saying was, "If you're wrong, you have no right to cry. If you're right, you don't need to cry." jlsm

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  64. My Dad was a great father but above all my best friend. He taught me how to live life and be of service and joy to others. He shared the love of books with me...always loved a good story...I miss him each and every day.

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  65. Father's Day was quiet for me this year. My grandfathers and dad are long gone, I'm separated, and my son just got married and doesn't have kids yet! I am envious of my friends who have close relationships with their dads!!

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  66. My Daddy was a Gentle, Loving, but Quiet Man. He always called me Baby. I have three brothers & 1 sister. I really miss not talking with him & even calling my parents house & he would always say " Hi Baby".
    Mary lady

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  67. My Dad has been gone for 22 years now and I miss him everyday. He supported me in whatever I did. He was the best Dad and always had a smile on his face. He was a kind hearted man and I am lucky I married a man just like him. I miss you Dad and love you! pasmith@comcast.net

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  68. Dad. A son's first Hero. A daughter's first Love. My Dad kind of ruined it for any guy I ever met. He cooked, he cleaned, he took care of us kids, he did the laundry, he mowed the yard and taught me how to do all of these things and how to work on a car. I haven't found anyone yet that has come close to filling those shoes. He has been gone now 6 years. There is such a hole in my life.

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  69. I grew up in Chicago with wonderful parents. For the Christmas holidays we would always go downtown to Marshall Fields and have breakfast in Walnut room under the tree. After my mom passed away, my Dad got sick. He was doing better and we went downtown to get him signed up for social security. After we were done I said lets have breakfast under the tree. My Dad looked at me and said he had never been. My mom took me because he was working. So at age 69, the last Christmas he was alive, my Dad had breakfast with me under the tree.....oneponychick66@hotmail.com

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  70. My father passed away over 30 years ago and I still miss him every day. He had a fine sense of humor and a keen mind. And, he could fix anything and everything. He loved to fish and do woodworking. He was my biggest supporter and he instilled in me a love of books and reading. It wasn't a surprise when I chose to become a librarian. My husband of over 40 years has been a fabulous father to our two children. And, I often see my father reflected in him. How wonderful it's been to have these two men in my life! jrob

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  71. My dad taught me how to cook pancakes, how to fish (and recently, how to fly fish), how to brew the perfect cup of coffee, how to paint a house and clean out a musty attic (safely, of course), how to make people laugh, especially with puns, how to drive stick shift, and how to do complex equations in your head. The last two never took, but he kept trying, with his infinite patience. I've seen him angry, frustrated, and once, emotionally lost, but the best thing is that I've seen him. He's been a constant fixture in my life, coming to my band tournaments, encouraging my 4H Club activities, meeting with my teachers, and even taking me to my senior year prom, when all of the high school boys I asked all rejected me. He isn't always kind, or calm, because he's as human as the rest of us. But he's patient, loving, and reliable. And I wouldn't trade him for anyone or anything in the world.

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  72. I don't really know my dad, but I am on Earth and am grateful for that. I was fortunate enough to find the best dad for my kids. He is so kind and patient with them each and every day. I have watched him be the work from home dad for the last few years, he even makes dinner... much better cook than I am, though I love to bake. =) He has been so sweet to take on my family as well, literally... we have had both of my brothers live with us and now my aunt. So here's to him, I love him and am so very thankful for him. That being said, thank you for the great recipes that we can both share, cooking and baking...we balance perfectly.
    kone.... I hope all is well at the Village Blend, Cheers!

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  73. I lost my dear husband two years ago tomorrow. My kids, now grown, lost the dad who was always there for them and they'd turned to for the last 33 years. He was not their birth father, but from the very beginning a dad in the best since of the word. He embodied love and patience in everything. He was Santa Claus! First in a charitable sense answering phone lines for 25 years he initiated through his workplace at Christmas time and for the last five years as a "real bearded Santa" at Sea World San Diego. He loved the kids and they adored him! I was married to Santa - my childhood dream come true! mrsc

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  74. I lost my dear husband two years ago tomorrow. My kids, now grown, lost the dad who was always there for them and they'd turned to for the last 33 years. He was not their birth father, but from the very beginning a dad in the best since of the word. He embodied love and patience in everything. He was Santa Claus! First in a charitable sense answering phone lines for 25 years he initiated through his workplace at Christmas time and for the last five years as a "real bearded Santa" at Sea World San Diego. He loved the kids and they adored him! I was married to Santa - my childhood dream come true! mrsc

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  75. My father was a hero long before he became my dad in 1952. He served in WWII in the Philippines as an MP but his particular heroic act occurred when his ship was blown up by friendly fire. My dad was only 5'3 but he carried his fellow unconscious mates through burning oil slicks and coral which cut up his feet. He went back to keep pulling soldiers from the debris and saved five men from drowning or burning to death before he collapsed on the beach. He never talked about his war experiences willingly because that was just what a soldier was supposed to do. He was unselfish with his family too, giving up his plans to return home from Korea when his father died in 1951 and staying home to care for his mother and go to work as a tool and die apprentice in a nearby factory. In 1952, he took on the responsibility of a wife and daughter and when my grandmother was diagnosed with diabetes and colon cancer, he rolled up his sleeves and hired a visiting nurse to care for my grandmother during the day. Although my father had to leave school at the end of 6th grade, he always encouraged me to go to school and was so proud when I entered college. My father always worked hard to provide for his family and never turned anyone down when they needed help. I never heard him complain or rail against life's tribulations. He loved me unconditionally and lived to see three of his four grandsons. I miss him every day...amke

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  76. TgrJ

    My grandfather passed this January. We grew up in a house just down the road from his house. He was a true patriarch, always there for his family no matter what. It's been 6 months and I still can't think about him without tearing up. He was a storyteller, I am trying to write them down to preserve them but I am not ready yet. Anyway, when I was little, I had gotten a new bike and was riding it around the block. I fell and the chain came off. Fortunately, it was right outside grandpa's workshop. He came out, picked me up and carried me inside. After he cleaned my skinned knee and bandaged me up, he brought my bike into his workshop and put the chain back on the bike. It was good as new. I miss him so much.

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  77. My father was perfect in my eyes. My parents had six children and for most of my childhood my father worked 2 jobs. When he was home there was always a spot on his lap for me, a hand to hold and the big deal was going with him to get gas and milk - just the two of us. He has a little time for each of us and it meant a lot. Fishing was the best. My husband is a lot like him. Always time for Indian Princesses (YMCA) with my daughter and scouts with the two boys. Just wish my father was still here. bobn

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  78. My father passed away 14 years ago, 6 months after my mother had passed. He was a hard working person who at an early age learned he had to take care of his own needs. The family had a farm and when my grandfather passed at an early age, my father quit school and took care of the farm. My father learned how to build a house, laying foundation, wiring and roofing. He also worked at a local car dealership when he returned from the service after WWII. Dad was great with tuning up a car before they had all the electronic gizmos. He provided for his family in the best way he could and we always had what we needed. I learned many things from him and consider myself very privileged to have been blessed to have him as my father.

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  79. My dad enjoyed all things with motors but especially classic cars. Now that he has been gone for 2 years, my mom, sister and I (with my husband and 3 children) celebrate him by going to a local classic car show on Father's Day weekend.
    My husband is a great father to our children. Through many difficulties, he has always encouraged our children to do their best in everything they do. He praises them for their excellence and helps them through the tough stuff. 5lil

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  80. I lost my dad 6 years ago this year, but I love to think of all the goofy things he would do to cheer me up when I was down or to get a smile out of me. He was such a comedian and always willing to ham it up for me. One of my favorite memories is that he actually sung the "Green Berets" song as a lullaby to me - I mean who think that "fighting soilders from the sky - fearless men who jump and die" would be something you should sing about to a baby girl. But I loved it - it was our song we would sing all the rest of his years.

    email - srwpnh

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  81. Mother was the disciplinarian so Daddy got to be my friend.
    We did a lot of things together. I enjoyed spending hours
    with him - working in his woodshop, painting, shopping. When
    my kids came along he was their friend also. He always dressed so nattily - I remember one time when he had his top coat and hat on, riding a skateboard down the driveway with my son. He was in his 50s (maybe older) but he got into the spirit of things. He's been gone so many years but I stil miss him.

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  82. I happy to say my father is still with us, and despite his health issues, he will be turning 80 this year. My dad has been there for me.

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  83. Please excuse my typos as I was crying when I wrote my entry. Thank you for having this contest for your readers, Cleo and Marc. It is good to have the chance to let others know how much we love and appreciate them or just to reflect upon that ourselves.
    Cynthia
    ceblain

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  84. My daddy has taught me the most important life lesson and I proudly passed it on to my three children.... Be gentle, kind, and loving to all those you meet. Vonjeffers12@gmail.com

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  85. I thank my dad for a lot of things but mostly that he taught me to love reading books. He used to read to my brother and me out of his hunting and fishing magazines. He read Louis L Amour westerns to me and I have cherished those moments.
    I am an avid reader and I have really enjoyed your coffeehouse series.
    jwisley(at)aol(dot)com

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  86. My Dad has been an angel for 34 yrs. and I miss him everyday! Madee (My Daddy) taught me how to laugh at myself instead of cry, how to ask for what I want because all that can happen is someone says 'no'! Very proud of his service to his country, a proud Marine, WWII & Korea (never knew how brave he was until his 25th wedding anniversary and heard stories of his heroics from other people), a licensed funeral director & embalmer and NYC Patrolman-for which he received a Medal of Valor! He did a spot on impersonation of Ed Norton and never failed to make laugh, smile and giggle! Only man I ever met who did his own Christmas & Birthday present shopping for other gifts and they were always just what you hoped and longed for! Thanks for the memories, I will always miss you! 💙😘 mybarnie

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  87. Pjd1

    I never knew my birth father. When he and my mother divorced when I was less than a year old, he deserted me. He never saw me after that. No monetary or emotional support whatsoever. I was fortunate in that my maternal grandfather became my father. He was strong, handsome, could fix about anything broken, and the bestest grandfather a girl could ever hope to have. He was a big, quiet man who adored his family. For some reason,in my head, I think of him as John Wayne and Walt Disney rolled up into one. A strange combination, granted, but it describes him in my heart the best. Tough and sweet all at the same time. He passed away 25 years ago and I miss him every day, but I'm so very grateful that he was mine.

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  88. Ugh wrote a tribute to the men I've been blessed with. It disappeared. Let me say o was blessed with a wonderful dad, my 1st husband gave me three beautiful children, and layer in life I met my current husband. He is a wonderful living man. A great man is to be treasured

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  89. My father has been gone for many, many years---I lost him to a heart attack way too early. One of my fondest memories was sitting on his lap and "fuzzing" his beard---it was actually quite soft. Thanks for the contest.
    Farrell@crosslake.net

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  90. Lost my dad when he was 38 and years divorced from mom. We moved to CA where two men became stepdad, AugieDoggie Daddy, and stepgrandpa, Harry, and were wonderful to their wives and good to us all the days of their lives.
    Judydee

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  91. My Dad grew up very very poor. He had to leave school at 5th grade to help his mother provide. His father walked out when he was 10, leaving his mother with three children, my father was the middle child. When he got older he married my mother and they had six kids, four girls, then two boys. My Dad loved kids and wanted more, but my mother's health prevented it. They struggled to provide for us, but my Dad would spend his last cent to try to give us more than he had as a child. He told us that at Christmas he was lucky to get an apple, so he wanted us to have more. As I got older I realized that my Dad was still a child at heart. So when I got a job I always made sure that he had his own Easter basket (my Mom too) and at Christmas I made sure they both got their own Christmas stocking with all kinds of goodies in it. As we earned more money, we kids went in and bought him a recliner thinking he would be so excited to see the large package, but he wasn't as excited as we thought. We found out that he wanted lots of smaller gifts so he could open more, so we never made that mistake again. His birthday was New Year's Day so he kept telling us that he didn't want to get cheated on his birthday or Christmas. We just laughed. He was a great father, always playing with us and trying to make us happy. Sadly he died in March 1995, after giving me his basket and asking me to give him his Easter basket early, which I did. He died only three days later. I still cry when I think about how he knew that the end was near. I still miss him very much.

    dec3

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  92. I was blessed to get a great Step-Dad when my mom remarried. My bio-father was a compulsive gambler, and when he lost, which was often, he became extremely abusive. My mom finally had enough and left him. When she remarried several years later, I am ashamed to say that I really put my step-dad through the proverbial wringer. But he showed time and again, in little ways and big, that he was was with us for the long haul. He truly became our DAD, the first one we had ever really had.

    (bookworm)

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  93. I was blessed to have a wonderful grandfather and father. I miss them both terribly and think of them often. My grandfather called me his "number 1" although there were 4 grandkids. My father and I had a tumultuous relationship when I was in my teens however we were very close when he died. I still wish I could pick up the phone and call for advice. My son is blessed to have a wonderful step-father who dotes on him.

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    Replies
    1. Oops.... luvs2 is first 4 letters of email addy

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  94. Retired a few years ago. Now I to reading and have found your fantastic books. Hope to read them all. Thank you for the great entertainment.
    slpetera@yahoo.com

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  95. First 4 letters of email: mich
    My Dad is/was my hero. He loved unconditionally. He listened more than he spoke and gave advice through his actions or when asked for. He had a strong work ethic and read voraciously. He was more of an armchair traveler. He did visit a lot of places while in the Navy, but I think the traveling experience was overshadowed by the fighting in WWII. The war left many invisible scars/memories that could not be erased and that were not readily shared. He was a big advocate for continued education,...no class was a waste. It all provided a knowledge base for life. He volunteered for citizen involvement in local government and literacy. My Dad, my HERO. And he did love coffee.

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  96. Father is a wonderful person. He was everything I want a father to be. And he introduced me to Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs. Way to go! thanks for the memories

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  97. My father and my brother have always made me feel safe and secure. I miss them both very much. Bonnie Please Enter Me in the contest -- bmalic

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  98. cedm - My late husband Charlie was a wonderful father, husband, son, brother and caretaker to his parents. He is now in Heaven waiting on me, praising God and loving every minute of his eternity. He would help anyone, anywhere and anytime. What a blessing to me and everyone he met!

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  99. Father's Day is a great time to remember fathers. Even those who are no longer with us.

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  100. dhud - My Dad was a hardworking man who always respected my mother and kept us well fed and clothed. We never had a lot of money, but I don't remember ever feeling poor. He passed away in 2002. My husband passed away last year and was a great husband, a good Dad and a wonderful Step-grandpa to my Grandkids. He was a police officer and even brought his squad car home one morning so he could give 3 grandkids a ride to school in a police car. They loved it! I miss both of them more than you can imagine.

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  101. My dad passed away in 1998--he was a wonderful father. But, sometimes my seriously handy husband will remind me of him so much when he can find a way to fix anything or happily eats whatever I cook (even when I experiment). Some once told me you marry your father and I laughed.

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  102. Jann
    Wow, Father's Day. I spent many morew it's my husbandt than with my dad, so my memories are of him. Mother's Day is about spoiling mom, but to my late husband, Father's Day was all abouth is grilling or smoking a lovely tri tip, ribs, or brisket. It brought him such pleasure to feed his family! I don't even try to fill his shoes.

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  103. My dad's been gone three years but the void left still hurts like yesterday. Strr

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  104. My Dad was always the person who most believed in my potential. He died suddenly 29 years ago this month, and I still miss him. It is amazing how much like him my son is, he was born 3 years after Dad died. gbjj

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  105. My dad would help you out anytime, he stayed up late helping me with math, I hated math, he taught me to READ He loved to read. He'd come in the night in the snow to help me with the car! He's been gone 12 years and I miss him. Donamaekutska7@gmail.com

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  106. My Dad passed in 2008. He was a wonderful man who worked to help the people of our city live better lives. He worked extremely hard but always let my sister Mother and I know that we were the most important things to him. He was smart, funny, and a practical joker. He used to lean on the television and say, " did you know I was going to be on TV tonight" and then start laughing. He taught me no matter how serious live may be never take yourself too seriously. I still miss and love him very much. ASH5

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  107. My BFF from high school had the best father. I was lucky enough to be 'adopted' by him. He yelled that my skirt was too short just as often as he did Alice. Hehehehe.
    cjre

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  108. amae My father's approach to parenting was one of partnership and friendship. I thought it worked so well that it's how I've interacted with my son, who's now eleven. His English-language name is shared with my father.

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  109. My dad worked very hard to provide for us, and I loved being a daddy's girl. He was a mechanic and he didn't mind me hanging out in the garage with him and learning how to fix things. Those are my best memories, along with watching the Macy Day parade every Thanksgiving together. We still do that even though we are in different states, we just spend part of the time on the phone while watching it together.

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  110. My Dad was a hard working farmer who spent his life outdoors in all kinds of weather. He loved his family and was strong in his faith.

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  111. I forgot the first part of my email: jean

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  112. Marc and I want thank YOU ALL for leaving such beautiful comments. We read EVERY SINGLE ONE, and we wish we could give you all a prize (maybe someday we'll be able to do this)! In the meantime, we can only give one prize today. The winner was selected by a random number generator. And the winner is...

    Dianne Bahn!

    Congrats, Dianne!

    To everyone else, we hope you will stay tuned to this blog and our Coffeehouse Mystery Newsletter for more contests in the future. Until then, we wish you all the very best.

    xooxo

    ~ Cleo
    Coffeehouse Mystery.com
    “Where coffee and crime are always brewing…”
    Cleo Coyle on Twitter
    www.CleoCoyleRecipes.com

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