I know it sounds old fashioned but I write thank you notes by hand after any gift or favor. People remember it. My dad taught me this when I was young and I've seen how much it matters when someone takes the time to actually put pen to paper instead of sending a text. Just wrote one to my neighbor w...
Started noticing my 12 year old has this habit of looking down when he talks to adults. So I've been working with him on this. We practice handshakes, we talk about what it means to really look someone in the face when you're speaking. Not in a creepy way but with confidence and respect. His soccer ...
Son had a massive explosive poop that went all the way up his back to his neck. Ruined his outfit and the car seat. This is our second week home and I feel like we're doing something wrong with the diaper size or something. Are we supposed to change him more often? First time dad here and I'm kind o...
Been working on this all summer and today was the day. He pedaled about 20 feet down the driveway before he wobbled and put his feet down but man you should have seen his face. His mom was crying happy tears and he immediately wanted to do it again. We must have practiced for like 2 hours straight. ...
Made a big decision to stop hanging out with my college crew who just want to party and complain about life. Realized I was becoming a worse version of myself around them, not praying, cutting corners at work, being distant with my family. Started going to a men's Bible study on Thursday nights inst...
Been raising my kids in the church since they were born. Thought I was doing everything right, bringing them to youth group, praying with them at dinner, modeling servant leadership at work. My 16yo just told me he doesn't think God is real and sees Christianity as outdated. I'm heartbroken but also...
Wife was at her sister's so I packed up the two boys and headed to a state park about an hour away. I was nervous as hell but figured I had to start somewhere. Set up the tent, made some decent campfire food, and honestly it went pretty smooth. We hiked for like 3 hours, kids were tired and happy. O...
Our entryway was a disaster zone, shoes and jackets everywhere, nobody could find anything. Built some cubbies with hooks and labeled everything. Took a Saturday afternoon with my 8 year old who helped paint and install the hooks. Kids actually put their stuff away now because they know where it goe...
Been working on organizing my garage for months. Got shelving units up, labeled everything, got a decent workbench going. My wife actually said it looks nice which is huge. I'm trying to keep it clean but with two kids and their bikes and scooters everywhere it's tough. At least I have a good spot t...
Finally joined a club nearby and played 9 holes last Sunday. Shot like a 52 which is terrible but it felt great to be out there. My wife was cool with me going so I'm trying to make it a regular thing maybe once a month. I know I won't get better if I only play once a year. Anyone else trying to get...
After like 6 months of planning and gathering stuff, I finally got my garage workbench dialed in. Got a nice pegboard system, new vise, and labeled all my drawers. The wife said it looks like a real workshop now instead of a junk pile. Feels good having a dedicated space that's actually organized. A...
Just fired up the smoker at 32 degrees to do a brisket. Some people think I'm insane but there's something peaceful about standing outside in the cold for 14 hours tending a fire. Got my coffee, my blanket, and nobody bothering me. Best day I've had in weeks.
Got the kids for the full weekend. Thinking about taking them to the park tomorrow if the weather holds, then maybe do a pizza night and movie Sunday. Nothing fancy but those are the best weekends honestly. What about you guys? Anyone got big plans?
Was at my kids school event and noticed I was the only dad who stood when the headmaster's wife walked over to our group. My son asked me why I did that. Told him it's about showing respect and honor. Doesn't cost anything and it means everything. We're raising a generation that's forgotten these sm...
Planning to take the family out for a week in July. Need something with easy access for the kids but not so touristy that it's packed. We like fishing if there's a stream nearby. Anyone have recommendations? First time really camping with kids under 10 so trying to keep it realistic.