I don’t necessarily think talking too much is something my kids struggle with now. But while they’re young, I want to instill in them good social skills. That’s why I’ve taking more of a “nip it in the bud” approach to meeting new people.
Making Memories: the Backyard VIP Fireworks Show
Independence Day here in the Northland of Minnesota is as American of an affair as it in any other state I’ve been able to celebrate it in. It’s a fun day of cookouts, parades, and an array of social gatherings to ring in 243 years since the Declaration of Independence. One celebration is nearly universal and will undoubtedly instill awe and wonder in children everywhere and bloodshot, tired eyes in Minnesota parents tonight: fireworks. So how do you balance Fourth of July fireworks and crowds with bedtime and pajamas? Let me tell you what my wife and I did last year.
Advice to My Children from Their Dad #1
I have, on occasion, reminded my oldest daughter that I am trying to teach her how to act, live, and do things because one day, I will be gone. Her reply is usually an inquisitive (and somewhat concerned), “Gone?” No, I don’t tell her that so she can wrestle with the idea of my mortality. I tell her this because I expect that one day, she will be able to be a self-sufficient, independent adult and live her life to the fullest. That’s why my wife and I teach her and her siblings how to clean their rooms, feed the cat, make their beds, and to pick up their toys. But there beyond how to act, there’s one of many pieces of advice I will continue to instill in them as they get older.
How My Family Likes to Chill Out and Relax
Chilling out, winding down, and relaxing sounds like an impossible feat to for an entire family to do at the same time and be happy. However, not everything has to be a planned activity or craft project. Finding a relaxing family activity recharges me, my wife, and the kids is all about getting everyone to do something calming together. Here are the current ways our family like to relax around here.
Reminiscing About All of My Old Cars | #JustDadThings
I thought I’d kick off this series of Just Dad Things with the the most dadliest things I know: reminiscing about every car I’ve ever owned and telling you stories about them.
The Butt Crack of Dawn
I love sleep. It’s one of my favorite hobbies. Sleeping is free and contributes to good health. But unlike some of my actual hobbies like cycling or gaming, my wife can attest that if I don’t…
Why Minecraft Rules in My House
My kids get some screen time throughout the week, so I give them something education or constructive. My in-laws have ABC Mouse and my phone battery drains over 9,000 times faster than normal thanks to the PBS Kids games app. But there is only one piece of software that rules over all others in my house and seems to give my kids a sense of accomplishment and achievement: Minecraft.