That Dad
I’ve realized most of the fathering decisions I’ve made recently are done with the purpose of not becoming “that dad”.  You know, the one that everyone can point out at the drop of a hat for actions that make him, well, “that dad”. Let me provide some examples: I don’t want to be.. That Dad that picks his kids up late claiming that work held him up. That Dad that loses his temper over small things and ends up having to apologize to a child that still thinks adults are perfect. That Dad that always needs a break from the kids at the same time his wife does. That Dad that doesn’t recognize when

Dedication
(NOTE: I realize this post is quite a departure from the norm, but I trust you’ll forgive the lack of continuity. There will be more informational posts in the future. For now, allow me to dedicate the following to a special reader.) In Praise My flower folds its lovely petals downward, but the sun still shines on it, unable to Resist its beauty. A stem gracefully extended, with full, rounded leaves that sway Undulating with the breeze, firmly rooted but flexible enough not To break in the windstorm. Bees hover, nectar worshipping, buzzing annoyingly with anticipation, but her inner sanctum remains

Another Look
“That’s the problem. When you say you’re looking, you’re just looking.” – Naomi Paul, 11 The seasons have changed, at least on the calendar, from the heat of summer to the relative cool of fall. I speak of course of the traditional understanding of autumn- there is no such dependable moderation of the temperature here in Miami. In fact, the days are hotter than they’ve ever been.  The season has also changed for me and my family, and while the effects have been similarly unpredictable, I’m confident in stating that we wouldn’t turn the calendar  back even if we could. In all, I must say we’ve enjoyed a