Fab Dad: Lee Hillson
#Girldad Lee Hillson is the executive chef of T. Cook’s, the long-adored signature restaurant at Royal Palms Resort & Spa.
Dad to: Tristan, 13 and Tatum, 11
Hometown: Greenwich, London, England
Favorite ways to spend family time in AZ: We love to dine out as a family. We have so many great places to eat. Farmers markets are fun (but I am sure they only go to appease me). We also love to do staycations, anywhere from local hotels to Cottonwood, Flagstaff and Prescott. Going to watch football with Tristan whenever I am off on a Sunday. We hit up Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers. She hates on my Patriots and tells me how amazing the Packers are. (How many rings??)
Your most rewarding fatherhood moment: The day I got to adopt the girls. Also watching Tatum get her belts at Premier Martial Arts. She is kicking butt.
Biggest challenge as a dad: Being brought up in a different era certainly has its challenges. Also being a male in a female house. We are wired differently.
A father who inspires you and why: That has to be my dad. He worked hard to support his family. He was firm but fair. He also gave me the best advice ever, and it was probably the hardest and most unselfish thing he ever had to say and do. I was 18 and about to move to the USA for the first time. I wasn’t sure I wanted to go as I would miss family and friends. He said I had to get on with my own life. I could write, call, visit or even leave and go back to the UK, but I had to give it a go. I had to start my own life as one day they would be dead, and I couldn’t live my life around them. It sounds harsh, but he was right. I moved out and started my own life. I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now or have my family if it wasn’t for that advice. I know it was hard for him to say, but I still remember it and thank him for it.
Best piece of advice for a new dad: You can never be right 100 percent of the time. We make mistakes as a dad all the time. Don’t dwell on it. Go with the flow but always be there for your kids.
Your biggest hope for your children: I hope they love themselves for who they are, be confident and for them to realize they can do anything they put their mind to. Be strong, kind and appreciate life.
How are you celebrating Father’s Day: When is it? No idea but hopefully we can get away somewhere.