Photo: Bev Sklar

Couch potato dad, computer chair dad, there's even a lounger named after dads who relish relaxation -- La-Z-Boy. Now there's nothing wrong with a guy who knows how to horizontally decompress -- working a stressful job deserves much-needed down time. But not all dads fit this stereotype. I know, I married and now have two kids, with a vertical dad.

Vertical dads prefer relaxing upright. They'd rather take the kids fishing than sit and watch golf. Walking the trail, the kids, the dog is their ultimate Barka Lounger. They're constantly planning the next active family vacation, whether it's hiking the Adirondacks or introducing their kids' knobby tires to Moab's slickrock. Forget copious TV time and video games, vertical dads watch nature's big screen -- the sky LIVE -- as they jog with their oldest or hunt for caterpillars with their youngest. Sometimes this penchant for "let's do something" clashes with an exhausted soccer mom, but she's usually uplifted and energized by fit family time.

I adored watching professional sports until I married a future vertical dad. After nine years of marriage, I can count on two hands the number of times we've actually watched a sporting event together on TV. Our family quality time is active-oriented. He adores plopping down with all of us on a cushy, two-mile hike. Constantly pulling us upright for another adventure, we're outdoors and in better shape thanks to him. It doesn't hurt that he's tremendously gifted at trail navigation, knots, setting rock climbs and planning summit routes.

Horizontal, vertical or hybrid dads, thanks for all the care, love and security you provide your family. Have a Happy Father's Day that fits your special style. Then hit the gym on Monday.