He always showed up.

8 Years Sober. A Full Table. And One Big Thank You.

This morning I made breakfast for my wife and our four kiddos—pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, and chocolate milk for the win.

Being that it was Father's Day, I texted my dad a picture of what I was cooking and said, "Happy Fathers day old man. This is because of you." (referring to the breakfast food)

Growing up, he was that dad. The one always flipping pancakes or making French toast on weekend mornings. It wasn’t about fancy recipes—it was about showing up. He made sure we knew we were loved, even if the house was loud and life was messy.

Today’s a milestone for me—8 years sober. It snuck up on me a bit, but as I stood in the kitchen this morning, flipping pancakes and laughing with my kids, the weight of it hit me. This isn’t just breakfast. It’s proof of what’s possible when you keep showing up.

My Dad Answered the Call

When I was at rock bottom, he didn’t run.

When I was starting Rock Bottom Recovery & Restoration and barely holding things together, he showed up again—with support, advice, and, sure, a few strong opinions. (Like insisting I set up 17 meetings when I was just trying to breathe.)

Honestly, some of that drove me nuts. But here’s the kicker: every single thing he said I should do… ended up being exactly what I needed to do.

Even at 32, your parents might still know better than you.

To My Dad, aka Grandpa, aka Grandpa Mike — and to Tom, aka Grandpa, aka Poppa

Thank you for being a constant.

For being the guy who answered the call when the bat signal went up — every time.

For being there when I needed it most… and even when I thought I didn’t.

Your strength, your quiet sacrifices, and your unwavering support have shaped more of who I am than words could ever capture. I carry your lessons with me — in the way I show up as a dad, a husband, and a man.

This Father’s Day, I raised a fork full of pancakes to you, Mr. Workman — Dad, Grandpa — with gratitude.

But I’d be remiss if I didn’t also lift that fork in honor of another man who has shown up just as steadily in our lives.

Tom — Poppa — Grandpa, thank you for stepping in with open arms, tools in hand, and love without condition.

For helping Ashley and I through many moments over the past few years.

For treating our chaos like it was your calling, and our kids like they were your own.

You didn’t have to. But you always did.

To the men who show up — in quiet ways and loud ones — thank you. We see you. We love you.

Grandpa and baby girl lock eyes comfortably weeks after coming home

To Anyone Out There Starting Over

Maybe you’re at the beginning of your story. Maybe you’re somewhere in the middle, where it’s messy and uncertain.

I’ve been there.

Recovery is possible. Rebuilding is possible. Starting something meaningful—even after everything—is absolutely possible.

If no one’s told you yet today: you’re not alone.

— Patrick Workman

Owner, Rock Bottom Recovery & Restoration

Father of 4 | 8 Years Sober | Builder of New Beginnings