What’s in a Name?

When my co-workers celebrated my birthday the other week, a smile came across my face when I saw the envelope with my birthday card. It simply read: “Shea.” That was one of the best things that could have happened. For as long as I can remember, I have either attracted nicknames or been called by […]

Happy Birthday to Me

Today marks a very sad day in my life. I no longer have a birthday. Officially, I turn 37 today, but none of that really matters any more. My daughter turns 5 later this week and will have her birthday party today. Instead of basking in the limelight, I will carry around goodie bags, pass […]

Mary Lou Shea, 1928-2005

My Mom taught me how to ride a bike in the Hutzler’s parking lot at Westview Mall in Catonsville, Md., on a Sunday afternoon. We had the whole place to ourselves because of the old blue laws. We missed the first half of a Baltimore Colts game while we were out there. I think they […]

Watch Your Cornhole

One of the great things about a family vacation is the things you learn. Maybe a sibling tells you a secret. Maybe you discover a new place to eat. Or maybe you discover the greatest game in the history of the world. I started to play cornhole down the beach.

Possum Hunting

When we bought our house, we chose an in-town location for several reasons. We liked the price. We liked being able to walk downtown. We liked our quiet street. I had one other reason for liking the location. I wouldn’t have to deal with any wild animals. I grew up in the suburbs. We did […]

My Destiny

As I approach the end of my 37th year, I have had an epiphany. I finally realize my true calling. I exist to give people something to laugh at. Don’t mistake this for a pity party. I’m pretty excited actually. I have slowly come to grips with my ability to make a fool out of […]

Un-American

We went to a party at a friend’s house a couple of weeks ago. They used to be teachers, and they continue to throw an “End of the School Year” cookout. The party coincides with their oldest child’s ninth birthday. The day after the cookout, they were taking him out for a special birthday dinner. […]

Thriller

We started a very important stretch of the summer this past week. I really need to stay focused or everything could come crashing down around me. It’s carnival season. Up until a few years ago, I had never visited any of our local carnivals. Then we had a kid, and I needed to entertain her […]

10 Minutes

I read about a research study the other day that has finally determined a question we all have. How late is late? You have a good 10 minutes and 17 seconds before you should call and say you are late. Well, at least that’s according to some British researchers. They always seem to be so […]