Football season is upon us. We’re Broncos fans here in our house, even though they’ve hardly been worth cheering for almost a decade. Nonetheless, they’re our team. We used to hate the Raiders, you know, football hate. Not that we genuinely celebrated injury to an opposing player or ill toward Raiders’ fans, but just normal football spirited team favoritism. The idea that children have an innate desire to be on a team is beyond dispute. [...]

It started when Dano was in 2nd grade. Every morning, he’d lollygag and not be ready when it was time to go. Lis would continuously push him from one morning routine activity to another “Is your bed made?” “Are you done with breakfast?” “Is your backpack ready?” “Did you put your homework in your folder?” “Let’s go Daniel, we’re going to be late.” You’re supposed to hand off responsibility when a child is capable of [...]

Tissues required. 20 years ago, Dave gave a tiny little key held by a gold chain to our daughter when she turned 13. It was to mark that she was becoming a woman and was a key to the treasures of her heart. Dave told Shelli those many yesterday’s ago that he would give it to her for safekeeping but someday someone else would come along and claim it. That day arrived on July 20th. [...]