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KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- With the blazing temperatures outside, several fathers headed to the Kirksville Aquatic Center for a cool down.

All of them got in for free. When our cameras got there, we saw several enjoying the afternoon with their children while they celebrated Father's Day.

Many of them said spending time with the kids is a wonderful experience.

"I enjoy watching how my kids develop and sharing experiences with them, " said Thomas Barhorst, a father of two and Kirksville resident. 

"Sometimes it's a good stress relief."

"I like spending time with my little girl especially on days like today. I didn't feel like going swimming but I was out here enjoying watching her swim. That's what really counts," said Albert Sloan, of Kirksville.

Greg Brookhart was at the pool celebrating his second Father's Day. He said he likes the fact that he can shape the life of another human being.

"I can help mold another person and to bring her up the way that I see it. And to see the fact that I can sit here and instill some stuff to her," said Brookhart, of Kirksville.

They all agreed that fatherhood is not always glorious.

"It's a little bit of a challenge but it's very well worth it," said Albert Sloan.

"Fatherhood can be scary and especially when you don't know what's wrong with them," said Brookhart.

The kids, on the otherhand, rushed our cameras, excited that they could tell their dads Happy Father's Day.

"I want to tell him that he's the best dad I ever had because he takes care of me nicely," said Emily Brown, of Kirksville.

"I just want to tell my dad that I love him very much and I miss him and have a happy Father's Day," said Hayle Sewell, of Kirksville.