Here’s something I’ve never understood: Why are we so obsessed with asking kids, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Seriously. Have you ever thought about that? Favorite color— sure. Favorite cartoon— absolutely. Favorite parent— doesn’t instill great social sensitivity skills, but I’ll allow it. But why do we ask them what … Continue reading What do you want to be when you grow up?
kids
Couch Shopping
I’ve said before that I’ve learned about myself recently that I’m an emotional runner. This is still true, by the way. But I’ve also learned that I’m a master avoider. The two go hand in hand, really. I mean, why would I be running if I didn’t need to avoid things? You would be amazed … Continue reading Couch Shopping
Put on your man face
The other day I was having a moment— you know, when you just need to sit by yourself, take some deep breaths and organize your thoughts so that tight feeling in your chest will go away? And Mary Ann comes to check on me because she’s a little mommy, and she rubs my back and … Continue reading Put on your man face
Spaghetti Night
If you ever want to know how to torture a mom, all you really have to do is ask her one question: What’s for dinner? This has been the question to cause more arguments in my marriage than almost anything else. More than how much I spend on Kindle books every month, more than how … Continue reading Spaghetti Night
Benjamin Button and the Fourth of July
This morning Uncle Jesse posted some photos from Independence Days past and they made me smile. My favorite is this gem of Benjamin Button holding a sparkler with a distrustful look on his face, convinced that this poor choice is going to cost him. I love looking back at pictures of my kids when they … Continue reading Benjamin Button and the Fourth of July
Making Memories
Once upon a time, many years ago in the magical land of South Carolina, there must have lived an ambitious director of tourism or chamber of commerce member who decided to put together one of the most-beloved lies of all time. He convinced everyone of this: “Taking your children to the beach is the perfect … Continue reading Making Memories
Back Seat Interrogations
When my kids were younger, like say age 2 and 3, and I needed a break from the craziness at home, I used to buckle them into their carseats and go for rides in my Ford Flex. I cranked the music up, not really riding to anywhere in particular, just trying to get them to … Continue reading Back Seat Interrogations
It Brings Me Joy
So crank up the tunes. Sing off key. Ride with the windows down. Do the Jeep Wave. Write with colored pens instead of black pens just because you can. Hold hands with someone you love...Find joy in these inconsequential things...