Crabcake Confusion

To be honest, I got a little cocky. I can only blame myself. My wife went away for a few days recently, leaving me in charge of everything – the house, the meals and our daughter. I had complete control. In the days and weeks leading up to this time, Bridget and I giggled over […]

Taking on a Challenge

When things get bad, you pretty much have two options. You can either sit in the corner and complain or you can step up and make a difference. I like the second one much more. With the exception of my parents’ death, I have had avoided major life problems for the most part. My family […]

Better Red Than Dead

We have certain traditions on my family’s annual beach vacation. We always have a cornhole tournament. One night features a crab feast. In recent years, we have added a scavenger hunt for the children in the family. This year, one of the irregular traditions I observe has returned. I got sunburn really bad, really fast. […]

Another Wedding Miscue

Some recent weddings in my family produced some embarassment for me. I’m not talking about making a fool out of myself on the dance floor because I have enough company in that area. I have had, for lack of a better term, wardrobe malfunctions prior to the ceremony. Six years ago, I realized I brought […]

Happy Father’s Day

I have had a good Father’s Day. I got a nice present from my daughter. My wife made an amazing breakfast for me. Later today, my father-in-law will come by for a visit. All in all, pretty good. Sure, I have a new case of pink eye, but I can handle that. After all, it’s […]

Baby Stepping into the Present

I have a complicated relationship with technology. Whenever something new comes out, I really, really want it. I inherited that trait from my late father. But over the years a few factors – namely reality and my wife’s love of thrift – have taught me the difference between wanting something and needing something. I have […]

Trouble Making Connections

As I sit down to write this column, something doesn’t feel quite right. I have started to have bouts of heartburn which drive me crazy. I know I shouldn’t eat certain things at certain times, but can’t help myself. So I try and take it easy the next morning with a nagging pain in my gut. […]

Relief Shopper

I try to help around the house as much as I can. My limited skills (and interest) disqualify me from many chores, but I still like to think I contribute to the common good. The other night I could see that my wife just needed a break. She had a busy week. I needed to […]

Walking the Walk

I had to go to the mall with my daughter recently. I noticed that she lagged behind me most of the time as we walked. I figured she had figured out she needed to stay close enough so that I would not worry, but far enough away so that people might not think she was […]