Amanda Hart

👔Most people don't realize Father's Day started right here in Washington.

In 1910, a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane wanted to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who raised six children as a single parent after the death of his wife. Inspired by the newly established Mother's Day, she believed fathers deserved recognition too. Her efforts led to the first Father's Day celebration in Spokane, Washington, planting the seed for the national holiday we celebrate today.

As the daughter of a veteran myself, that story hits a little differently.

Father's Day has never been just another date on the calendar. At its core, it's about recognizing the dads who show up, sacrifice, lead, and quietly shape the lives of the people around them.

That's why some of the most meaningful Father's Day celebrations aren't the big gifts or elaborate plans. They're the simple moments.

🎣 An early morning fishing trip.
🥾 A hike on a local trail.
🔥 A backyard BBQ.
🚗 A family road trip.
❤️ Time spent together creating memories.

One of the things I love most about living in Washington and serving families throughout the Tri-Cities is how easy it is to build traditions around the people who matter most. Whether you're celebrating in Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, West Richland, or anywhere in our community, Father's Day is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the men who helped shape our stories.

And because my father's military service played such a meaningful role in my life, supporting veterans remains close to my heart.

Through our Community Champions Program at Hart2Homes & The Hive, we're proud to offer special benefits for veterans, active-duty military members, and military families buying or selling a home in Washington or Oregon. It's our small way of saying thank you to those who have served our country and our communities.🐝

This Father's Day, whether you're planning a big celebration or simply spending quality time together, remember that the best traditions often start with something simple—just like Father's Day itself did right here in Washington.

💾 Save this for Father's Day inspiration or share it with someone who loves Washington history.

🐝 Smooth Service. Even Sweeter Results.

🏡 In today's market, buyers aren't just buying a house.

They're buying into a builder.

And here in the Tri-Cities, people notice the difference between a builder who's simply building homes and a builder who's helping build the community. 🐝

When buyers are looking at new construction homes in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and West Richland, they're paying attention to more than floor plans, countertops, and paint colors.

They want to know:

✨ Will this builder stand behind their product?
✨ Do they care about the people moving in?
✨ Are they invested in the neighborhood they're creating?

Because anyone can build a house.

Not everyone can build trust.

The builders who consistently stand out are the ones showing up at community events, supporting local causes, partnering with local businesses, listening to homeowner feedback, and staying engaged long after the sold sign goes up.

That's what creates confidence.

And confidence sells homes.

As someone who tours new construction communities across the Tri-Cities every week, I can tell you buyers absolutely notice when a builder is invested in more than just the transaction.

The best neighborhoods aren't built with lumber and concrete alone.

They're built through relationships. 🤝🏡

💬 When buying a new construction home, what's most important to you?

Quality?
Communication?
Reputation?
Community involvement?

🐝 Smooth Service. Even Sweeter Results.

👔 Dads are funny.

They'll tell you they don't want anything for Father's Day...

Then spend the whole day showing off the gift you got them. 😂

With Father's Day landing on June 21 this year, there's no rule that says you have to wait until Sunday to celebrate.

Some of the best Father's Day memories happen in the days leading up to it:

🎣 An early morning fishing trip
🥩 A backyard BBQ
🥾 Exploring a local Tri-Cities trail
🍺 Grabbing dinner at Dad's favorite spot
🏡 Simply spending time together without rushing from one event to the next

One of my favorite things about living in the Tri-Cities is how easy it is to create meaningful moments without needing an elaborate plan. Whether you're in Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, or West Richland, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the dads, grandpas, bonus dads, and father figures who show up for us every day.

Because at the end of the day, most dads don't remember the gift.

They remember the time.

💛

What's your favorite Father's Day tradition?

🐝 Smooth Service. Even Sweeter Results.