As we approach Christmas Day and all that it brings, no doubt most of our youngsters have had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap and whisper into his ear.
It’s an annual tradition that is seldom missed.
At our household, photos with Santa are a must, and if you line up them, you can see a chronology of visits, and see, before your eyes, how our kids have grown.
With three youngsters, Santa has needed some help in fine-tuning our family’s list and gathering the items from all over the world.
My eldest provided a written list back in November, but the younger ones were a bit of a challenge this year.
They didn’t ask for much, which is kind of odd, considering kids always ask for the moon.
I’m not sure if they’re taking some of life’s lessons to heart, or have run out of toys and games!
Santa shared the contents of their letters with me and I was able to solicit a response from the man himself.
Dear Santa,
“This year the only thing I want is for everyone to have a great Christmas season,” Liam, 12.
Dear Liam,
“I was so pleased to read your letter, it made my day!
The Christmas season is my favourite time of year as you can imagine. Spreading cheer to young and old alike, around the world for hundreds of years has been my number-one responsibility. I will admit it’s not always easy.
But what I can share with you is this. If just one person, you perhaps, starts feeling the spirit of the season and being kinder and nicer to your family and friends, it will grow and grow. Kindness knows no bounds and it can literally stretch right around the world. Trust me, I’ve seen it.
What I would say to people is open your hearts, embrace what you have and enjoy the warmth and good cheer of the season. And yes, you are allowed to eat a few extra goodies this time of year!”
All the best, Santa
Dear Santa,
“This year I really haven’t been doing so well – I just can’t get into the Christmas spirit. I would really appreciate a sign to remind me of the importance of the holiday season. And maybe, if you have a chance on Christmas Eve, you could pay a visit to Africa, Haiti, Dominican Republic (all the places experiencing poverty) and give them what they deserve – love and hope. I’m looking forward to seeing your reindeer on my roof,” Lexie, 15.
Dear Lexie,
“The Christmas spirit never leaves you, it just sometimes gets lost in all the hustle and bustle of the season, school and sports commitments, and the pressures of the world.
But believe me, it lives in you, I can feel it, all the way up here at the North Pole.
I’ve been watching you lately, and let me say that your heart is as big and sweet as a bowl of sugar plums! I have seen your compassion towards others – your friends, family and the less fortunate through your volunteer work.
This is a quality that can’t be taught or given to someone. It’s inside you and it’s all you.
Maybe because of some of the things you’ve seen, you feel you can do more. I know what you’re talking about. I see many needy kids every year and I do my best to put a smile on each and every one of their faces. I do visit every country and children of all shapes, sizes and colours.
It’s tough sometimes. But I’m not discouraged. Just one smile, a tiny bit of love and hope, can change the world. Hope is a lot like ‘belief” – it’s powerful stuff you know, even stronger than my magic.
You asked for a sign, but you don’t really need one. As I said, it’s inside you – I see the sparkle in your eyes. It’s not unlike the one I had when I was a youngster – wide-eyed wonderment at the world, wanting to help everyone and make this a better place. I’ve been hard at work for hundreds of years. How do you think I have done?
My reindeer will land on your roof again this Christmas Eve, so don’t forget to leave them a snack.”
Your Friend, Santa
Dear Santa,
“How are you and how is Mrs. Claus? How are the reindeer? This Christmas I would like a play house that is human sized so I can play in it. Santa, for others that are poor or on the street struggling, I want them to have a shelter, food and water because nobody should be alone on Christmas,” Kyleigh, 8.
Dear Kyleigh,
“So nice to hear from you again this year.
I have heard you have been pretty good, and I know you are trying to get along better with your brother. Trust me on this one, you and Liam will become best friends when you’re older.
A human-sized playhouse, eh? Santa doesn’t really make buildings for kids, and my magic is limited to toys and things of the heart. Santa can’t make cars, houses or flying saucers, even though kids always ask for them.
How about a beautiful doll house?
As far as helping the poor, Santa always tries to help as many people as he can. I have a lot of helpers around the world who do good work. I try to make sure those living on the streets in colder climates get a helping hand, food and a warm bed at night.
You know what’s a start? Little ones like you asking. When you care about others, it creates a warm feeling, like a blanket, that we can use to wrap around our fellow men and women.
The Care Meter on my sleigh fluctuates from time to time, but all in all, it seems to be in the green. We need to keep it up, not just at Christmas time, but all year long. And you’re quite right, no one should be alone on Christmas.
But if we keep them in our thoughts and prayers, we help spread love and the true meaning of Christmas.
I’ll make sure you get something special for your thoughts.
Keep touching my nose on the sculpture in your foyer for good luck!”
Love, Santa
“But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night!”
Georgian Bay Sunset
Taken from The Del docks - Photo by Mark Pavilons
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Empty seats at family celebrations
Dear Mom and Dad;
As Kim and Liam blew out their birthday candles recently, they marked small milestones in their lives.
They were surrounded by all who loved them – their family.
There have been a few such celebrations in recent years, events you missed through no fault of your own.
I haven’t had much time to write recently – our three trouble-makers are a handful, and I only have two hands!
You are likely keeping an eye on us from your heavenly perch – hopefully it’s a hilltop on a beautiful meadow, or in a comfy reclining chair on an endless beach.
In case you haven’t had time to catch up, or simply weren’t permitted by the Big Guy, I’ll fill you in on a few things.
Lexie, our first born precious cargo, celebrated her 15th birthday. Dad, has it really been that long since you left?
The party in our basement was brimming with teens. All went well and by all assessments, Lexie is well liked by her peers.
That’s good to hear. The teen years can be so troublesome, it’s nice to know she’s blessed with charm and a good heart.
Her big heart was evident during her mission trip through her high school, in which she helped less fortunate souls in the Dominican Republic. You would have been very proud of her, just as we are. Maybe you followed her on her adventure, and helped keep her safe.
It would be nice to see your faces, grinning from ear to ear, at Lexie’s accomplishments. I’m sure part of those smiles would be meant for me, too. There are times I’d just love to reach out and place by hand on your cheeks.
Lexie would squeeze the stuffings out of both of you, if only she could.
I know it’s not practical, but please blow her a kiss from the clouds, and ease her teenage burdens just a little bit, by dusting off her strong shoulders. Maybe you’re both there, just beyond the scope of human vision, standing behind her, with hands firmly placed on her shoulders.
She’s quite the athlete and often gets down in the dumps when she doesn’t “make the team.” She loves soccer and I know that with each pass, or powerful kick, she grunts, feels alive, and is supported by the “ghosts” of generations past. Maybe you have been able to see her, invisible on the sidelines. Save a cheer, and rattle the bleachers in your neck of eternity!
Academically, she’s doing well and is interested in the arts at her high school. There’s no telling just where she’ll end up!
Liam, our clan’s only boy, extinguished 12 candles recently.
While he’s stubborn and argumentive, he’s filled with curiosity and questions about the past, future, life, death and the infinity of the universe. He loves to have fun, stage mock battles and enjoy every experience life has to offer.
For his birthday celebration, I took him and a few of his friends out for an afternoon of paintball fun. Wow, running around a dimly lit warehouse with 30 other kids, teens and adults was fun, but tiring. I was dispatched by some well place shots in every round, but I rolled around the dirt laughing while I winced.
Boys will be boys.
When he laughs from the belly, you can’t help but join in – it’s contagious. Perhaps his squeals of joy penetrate the Pearly Gates from time to time, turning heads! Feel free to tell the others it’s your grandson.
He’s not a big fan of hitting the books, but he’s quite bright and a quick learner when something interests him. He’s mastered several video games that I stumble through as he tries to guide dear old day through wrecked buildings and alien terrain.
He’s a loving boy child. Dad, you never got a chance to see your only grandson. And it saddens me that you never got to know him. He’s missed that connection and if there’s any celestial way possible, send him a sign or drop by for a visit, only to look into his eyes for a few moments and see what’s in his heart.
Kyleigh Q, our youngest prodigy, is a spunky child, with more moxie than the other two combined! We only wish she’d use her powers for good, not planting her feet firmly on the ground and placing her hands on her hips, taunting us to try to sway her.
As the third born, she’s likely heaping on the assertiveness to assume her rightful place in the family hierarchy and be noticed. Oh, she’s noticed all right!
She’s also a fast learner and has a passion for art and music. She wants to be a “farmer,” but wants her husband to do all the work! She loves horses and perhaps we’ll let her try riding this summer.
Mom, she felt your departure profoundly for such a small child. She thinks of you often and sheds a tear now and then, recalling the times you spent together.
She also has an intense curiosity and is willing to try anything.
Most of my kids enjoy roller coasters – one contraption that I avoid like the plague. They are adventurous thrill-seekers to be sure and we’re trying to feed their zest for life.
Mom and Dad, I hope your time on earth was well spent, and you’re pleased with how some things have turned out.
While my life isn’t as charmed as I would have hoped, I am trying and remain somewhat optimistic. Kim is our rock and I think we both have to let more roll off of our shoulders.
I have no shortage of intestinal fortitude, but outside stresses and frustrations take their toll from time to time.
Mom and Dad, thanks for laying the ground work for all that has unfolded around me. I may not be the Michaelangelo of child-rearing or fatherhood, but perhaps my form of abstract art is pleasing to the eye.
Thinking of you.
Your Son.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Protecting our most precious ‘investment’
At this time of year, our thoughts turn to personal finances, budgets, tax savings and planning for the future.
We look at our family members, not as unique individuals, but as sources of deduction - write-offs if you will.
All of this in an often feeble attempt to keep more money in our pockets.
Financial “experts” talk about our biggest personal investments - our home, new car, vacation residence and retirement savings.
Search newspapers, advertisements and websites and you’ll find plenty of information on the above.
But it seems we’re overlooking our actual biggest investment responsibility.
This “asset” isn’t the most expensive, but it’s the most precious. It costs about the same as a fancy, European sports car or a modest, older home.
It starts small, doesn’t come with a warranty or any instructions and depreciates almost the second you get it home. It’s costly, and provides nothing in terms of an ROI for at least 20 years. It’s high maintenance and must be watched around the clock. And there’s very little peace of mind associated with this commodity.
Why would anyone in their right mind want to invest is something like this?
“Children are our most valuable resource.” - Herbert Hoover, 31st U.S. president
You may have guessed it by now. The most valuable investment in our short, humble lives - our children.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the cost of raising a child to the age of 18 is now a breathtaking $226,920. I’m sure the figure is comparable here in Canada.
Ferraris, Porsches and Bentleys are all well and good, but they too, depreciate very quickly. Of course, like a proud parent, you love them, baby them and show them off for the world to see.
Of course, there’s a very real cost associated with owning one of these automobiles, and like our offspring, these may live in your garage well beyond their 18th birthdays!
So, fellow parents, we have to weigh the pros and cons - the profit and loss - of our creations.
Thankfully, we don’t have to take out a loan to have a child (okay, maybe a small one).
Does that amount seem daunting, especially when families have three and four children? Maybe a bit, but there tends to be a bit of a discount on multiple children!
This figure hasn’t changed much over the years.
Back in the 1960s, the cost to raise a child through 18 was just under $200,000 (in today’s dollars) or 450% of a year’s income.
But, just how and where we spend the dough has changed dramatically since those colourful days of peace and love.
Child care has risen dramatically; food, clothing costs are much higher; there are modern toys like cell phones and personal devices, etc., etc.
And the hammer falls when you consider the costs of post-secondary tuition, which has skyrocketed in the past 20 years.
“No one has yet fully realized the wealth of sympathy, kindness and generosity hidden in the soul of a child. The effort of every true education should be to unlock that treasure.” - Emma Goldman, author
So, what if we pump everything we have into this precious cargo, and we get a “lemon?” Kick the tires all you want, no one will take it back!
Just how do we leverage the contents of our human portfolio? Well, we try to arm them with all of the knowledge, advice, tips and information they need to assert themselves and make inroads in this ever-changing world. We give them tools and show them how to use them.
We try to mold them, and encourage them to be well rounded, to be involved in individual and team sports to learn skills, cooperation and discipline. We allow them to explore their creative sides by taking dance and music lessons. We support them in organizations that teach service to our fellow men and women. We force them to do homework and pursue a higher education, putting away what we can to cushion the post-secondary blow. (Did I say we didnt’ have to get a loan to have a child?)
“I continue to believe that if children are given the necessary tools to succeed, they will succeed beyond their wildest dreams!” - David Vitter, U.S. senator
We do all of these things for very selfish reasons, but not to get rich. We do this, I believe, to not only add new, personal dimensions to the fabric of humankind, but to leave some sort of legacy, a faint echo of ourselves, long after we’re gone.
Great if our kids can carve out their own niche, climb the corporate ladders and establish themselves as leaders of the pack. Equally fine if they can become loving spouses, compassionate parents and kind souls.
You can’t put a price on your child’s smile; hug; hastily crafted birthday card; watching them perform in their school concert, or scoring their first goal.
Financially, it’s a losing proposition.
But worth every penny!
We look at our family members, not as unique individuals, but as sources of deduction - write-offs if you will.
All of this in an often feeble attempt to keep more money in our pockets.
Financial “experts” talk about our biggest personal investments - our home, new car, vacation residence and retirement savings.
Search newspapers, advertisements and websites and you’ll find plenty of information on the above.
But it seems we’re overlooking our actual biggest investment responsibility.
This “asset” isn’t the most expensive, but it’s the most precious. It costs about the same as a fancy, European sports car or a modest, older home.
It starts small, doesn’t come with a warranty or any instructions and depreciates almost the second you get it home. It’s costly, and provides nothing in terms of an ROI for at least 20 years. It’s high maintenance and must be watched around the clock. And there’s very little peace of mind associated with this commodity.
Why would anyone in their right mind want to invest is something like this?
“Children are our most valuable resource.” - Herbert Hoover, 31st U.S. president
You may have guessed it by now. The most valuable investment in our short, humble lives - our children.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the cost of raising a child to the age of 18 is now a breathtaking $226,920. I’m sure the figure is comparable here in Canada.
Ferraris, Porsches and Bentleys are all well and good, but they too, depreciate very quickly. Of course, like a proud parent, you love them, baby them and show them off for the world to see.
Of course, there’s a very real cost associated with owning one of these automobiles, and like our offspring, these may live in your garage well beyond their 18th birthdays!
So, fellow parents, we have to weigh the pros and cons - the profit and loss - of our creations.
Thankfully, we don’t have to take out a loan to have a child (okay, maybe a small one).
Does that amount seem daunting, especially when families have three and four children? Maybe a bit, but there tends to be a bit of a discount on multiple children!
This figure hasn’t changed much over the years.
Back in the 1960s, the cost to raise a child through 18 was just under $200,000 (in today’s dollars) or 450% of a year’s income.
But, just how and where we spend the dough has changed dramatically since those colourful days of peace and love.
Child care has risen dramatically; food, clothing costs are much higher; there are modern toys like cell phones and personal devices, etc., etc.
And the hammer falls when you consider the costs of post-secondary tuition, which has skyrocketed in the past 20 years.
“No one has yet fully realized the wealth of sympathy, kindness and generosity hidden in the soul of a child. The effort of every true education should be to unlock that treasure.” - Emma Goldman, author
So, what if we pump everything we have into this precious cargo, and we get a “lemon?” Kick the tires all you want, no one will take it back!
Just how do we leverage the contents of our human portfolio? Well, we try to arm them with all of the knowledge, advice, tips and information they need to assert themselves and make inroads in this ever-changing world. We give them tools and show them how to use them.
We try to mold them, and encourage them to be well rounded, to be involved in individual and team sports to learn skills, cooperation and discipline. We allow them to explore their creative sides by taking dance and music lessons. We support them in organizations that teach service to our fellow men and women. We force them to do homework and pursue a higher education, putting away what we can to cushion the post-secondary blow. (Did I say we didnt’ have to get a loan to have a child?)
“I continue to believe that if children are given the necessary tools to succeed, they will succeed beyond their wildest dreams!” - David Vitter, U.S. senator
We do all of these things for very selfish reasons, but not to get rich. We do this, I believe, to not only add new, personal dimensions to the fabric of humankind, but to leave some sort of legacy, a faint echo of ourselves, long after we’re gone.
Great if our kids can carve out their own niche, climb the corporate ladders and establish themselves as leaders of the pack. Equally fine if they can become loving spouses, compassionate parents and kind souls.
You can’t put a price on your child’s smile; hug; hastily crafted birthday card; watching them perform in their school concert, or scoring their first goal.
Financially, it’s a losing proposition.
But worth every penny!
Monday, December 19, 2011
Doing something right
Parents often don't get either recognition or a sense of satisfaction in the 24/7 job they've undertaken.
They stumble through child-rearing, learning from their mistakes and trying to improve every day. But, unlike other obstacles or challenges, this one is constantly moving, morphing, evolving. Like a moving target in an amusement park shooting game, perfecting our child-raising strategies is tough. Most of time, I feel like I'm getting the tiny plastic toy, while aiming for the giant stuffed panda.
But every once in a while, our little ones do or say something that truly impresses. In the real, adult world, nothing much fazes me, but my wee ones have been tossing out some rare nuggets recently that not only catch me off guard, but make me smile and beam.
The holiday season brings out the best in people. Children are no exception.
My eldest went above and beyond this year, particularly when she noticed that her fellow (affluent) classmates weren't rising to the cause, and donating items for the Christmas drive. For almost an entire week, our future philanthropist and world traveller made her way to school armed with bags of gifts, clothes, toys, games, books, DVDs - some of which she purchased herself - to make a family happy this season. Almost single-handedly, she took on this burden to save the world, one person at a time!
Good for her.
My youngest, during one of our outings, reached into her pink purse, pulling out some pennies, nickels and dimes. "Is this a lot of money to give?" she asked. "It's tons," I replied.
Good for her.
My middle child, after buying his mom a Christmas present, also took his change and deposited it into a yuletide donation receptacle.
Good for him.
Like faith and hope, charity is a truly human expression of compassion. It's key to our very existence.
It's true that charity begins at home. Fortunately, it doesn't stay there!
All the best this holiday season to you and yours!
They stumble through child-rearing, learning from their mistakes and trying to improve every day. But, unlike other obstacles or challenges, this one is constantly moving, morphing, evolving. Like a moving target in an amusement park shooting game, perfecting our child-raising strategies is tough. Most of time, I feel like I'm getting the tiny plastic toy, while aiming for the giant stuffed panda.
But every once in a while, our little ones do or say something that truly impresses. In the real, adult world, nothing much fazes me, but my wee ones have been tossing out some rare nuggets recently that not only catch me off guard, but make me smile and beam.
The holiday season brings out the best in people. Children are no exception.
My eldest went above and beyond this year, particularly when she noticed that her fellow (affluent) classmates weren't rising to the cause, and donating items for the Christmas drive. For almost an entire week, our future philanthropist and world traveller made her way to school armed with bags of gifts, clothes, toys, games, books, DVDs - some of which she purchased herself - to make a family happy this season. Almost single-handedly, she took on this burden to save the world, one person at a time!
Good for her.
My youngest, during one of our outings, reached into her pink purse, pulling out some pennies, nickels and dimes. "Is this a lot of money to give?" she asked. "It's tons," I replied.
Good for her.
My middle child, after buying his mom a Christmas present, also took his change and deposited it into a yuletide donation receptacle.
Good for him.
Like faith and hope, charity is a truly human expression of compassion. It's key to our very existence.
It's true that charity begins at home. Fortunately, it doesn't stay there!
All the best this holiday season to you and yours!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Parenting from the sidelines
Soccer has wrapped up for another season in our household with some exciting final weekend action of the Bolton Wanderers Soccer Club.
Both of my kids' final matches were decided in shootouts - nail-biting, stressful shootouts. It's a tough way to end a competition but that's sports.
Groups of complete strangers spent the summer together, learning, growing and coming together as teammates. Parents were united in support.
During the final weekend, the sidelines erupted with cheers from moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, brothers and sisters. It was fantastic to see this support and the positive reinforcement supplied by most parents.
As we "coached" and cheered from the sidelines, offering pre- and post-game moral support, it dawned on me that this is a parent's role in a succinct nutshell - we are there to offer support, silently or vocally, no matter what, rain or shine, in sickness and in health, in victory and in loss, in joy and in sorrow.
In a typical sports season, you experience all of these things, and more.
The rain stops, the sun comes out, the bruises heal, the laces get tied up again, and spirits soar.
I witnessed some of the best soccer I have ever seen in recent years and I felt closer to my kids. I shared in their triumps and their tribulations, reassuring them that sportsmanship and comaraderie build character and the lessons on the field are just warmups for what's in store in the future.
A game is easy - there are rules and time limits. You hone your skills and make better passes and more accurate kicks. You work together for a common goal.
Life's like that in many ways. Unfortunately, the rules are constantly changing and the clock is always ticking.
I've been down in the dumps lately, but this past weekend rejuvenated even this tired soul. It gave me hope. I was filled with pride. I was happy, every minute of every game they played.
For the kids, their wins and losses will soon be forgotten as they concentrate on school work, meet new friends and prepare for the holidays.
For me, this soccer season was unforgettable.
I'd like to thank everyone at the BWSC for their undying commitment to soccer in our community. And to the coaches of Roma and Spain, thank you for making a difference!
Both of my kids' final matches were decided in shootouts - nail-biting, stressful shootouts. It's a tough way to end a competition but that's sports.
Groups of complete strangers spent the summer together, learning, growing and coming together as teammates. Parents were united in support.
During the final weekend, the sidelines erupted with cheers from moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, brothers and sisters. It was fantastic to see this support and the positive reinforcement supplied by most parents.
As we "coached" and cheered from the sidelines, offering pre- and post-game moral support, it dawned on me that this is a parent's role in a succinct nutshell - we are there to offer support, silently or vocally, no matter what, rain or shine, in sickness and in health, in victory and in loss, in joy and in sorrow.
In a typical sports season, you experience all of these things, and more.
The rain stops, the sun comes out, the bruises heal, the laces get tied up again, and spirits soar.
I witnessed some of the best soccer I have ever seen in recent years and I felt closer to my kids. I shared in their triumps and their tribulations, reassuring them that sportsmanship and comaraderie build character and the lessons on the field are just warmups for what's in store in the future.
A game is easy - there are rules and time limits. You hone your skills and make better passes and more accurate kicks. You work together for a common goal.
Life's like that in many ways. Unfortunately, the rules are constantly changing and the clock is always ticking.
I've been down in the dumps lately, but this past weekend rejuvenated even this tired soul. It gave me hope. I was filled with pride. I was happy, every minute of every game they played.
For the kids, their wins and losses will soon be forgotten as they concentrate on school work, meet new friends and prepare for the holidays.
For me, this soccer season was unforgettable.
I'd like to thank everyone at the BWSC for their undying commitment to soccer in our community. And to the coaches of Roma and Spain, thank you for making a difference!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Paying attention to child’s play
I’ve been paying closer attention to my kids lately.
My 10-year-old son has a unique gait, sort of a wobble. I can pick him out of a crowd 200 metres away, as school lets out.
I don’t know if it’s his overstuffed backpack or his own personal style. I watched intently one afternoon, looking for his quirks and mannerisms. It made me chuckle.
I see him talk to himself; stage mock battles of some sort, and likely picturing himself as a modern-day superhero of sorts, albeit in a smaller stature.
He is a typical boy. I guess I forgot all about that, pushing my inner child aside as life gets more complicated and taxing. I still maintain a collection of tiny model aircraft – they make me smile and for a few, brief moments each day I’m taken aloft, soaring through the clouds.
These are collectibles, not toys, yet my wife and eldest daughter make fun of me for my one harmless hobby.
My boy has different tastes and today’s playthings are much more varied and plentiful, offering youngsters a cornucopia of imagination-stimulating possibilities.
And that’s what it’s all about – taking a break from reality to simply play. I have committed the following quote to memory to sum this up: the more complicated the mind, the greater the need for the simplicity of play. I think it came from a Star Trek episode, but likely has older origins.
When I stroll past my son’s room and hear his “noises,” I smile again. When I enter he waits for a critical word, but lately I’m more apt to flop down beside him and engage in outlandish battles and journeys.
I should have done it more often, instead of telling him to make his bed or tidy up his mess.
My youngest daughter, even at 5, amuses herself in often intense play time, where she bosses around her Barbies and creates wonderful art on her desk and dresser. Of course, when asked about this, she admits nothing! She’s as clever and evasive as she is cute. Let’s face it, dollies aren’t my thing, but I have played, even though I’m taken to task for my improper play style. My dolls jump, yell and fight, what can I say?
My eldest, who recently became a teen, is a bit beyond interacting with dear, old dad. She desperately wants to grow up and experience grown-up things. She watches teen movies, makes crafts and sings loudly (she’s actually quite good) as if to make a statement to the world.
We have kept all of the good, old toys in the basement and I often find her rummaging around, picking out some oldie, but goodie. She can also be found playing with Hot Wheels and for some strange reason, she tends to like the really odd cars of the ‘70s of the ‘80s, like station wagons, Gremlins and Pacers! Don’t tell me these are making a comeback! I understand retro, but come on!
Does play really tell you a lot about someone? Psychologists will say yes and there’s likely mountains of data on play behaviour.
The bottom line is to allow them the simplicity of play. And, it doesn’t hurt to get down on the floor with them and let loose. Getting up is another matter!
Have fun!
My 10-year-old son has a unique gait, sort of a wobble. I can pick him out of a crowd 200 metres away, as school lets out.
I don’t know if it’s his overstuffed backpack or his own personal style. I watched intently one afternoon, looking for his quirks and mannerisms. It made me chuckle.
I see him talk to himself; stage mock battles of some sort, and likely picturing himself as a modern-day superhero of sorts, albeit in a smaller stature.
He is a typical boy. I guess I forgot all about that, pushing my inner child aside as life gets more complicated and taxing. I still maintain a collection of tiny model aircraft – they make me smile and for a few, brief moments each day I’m taken aloft, soaring through the clouds.
These are collectibles, not toys, yet my wife and eldest daughter make fun of me for my one harmless hobby.
My boy has different tastes and today’s playthings are much more varied and plentiful, offering youngsters a cornucopia of imagination-stimulating possibilities.
And that’s what it’s all about – taking a break from reality to simply play. I have committed the following quote to memory to sum this up: the more complicated the mind, the greater the need for the simplicity of play. I think it came from a Star Trek episode, but likely has older origins.
When I stroll past my son’s room and hear his “noises,” I smile again. When I enter he waits for a critical word, but lately I’m more apt to flop down beside him and engage in outlandish battles and journeys.
I should have done it more often, instead of telling him to make his bed or tidy up his mess.
My youngest daughter, even at 5, amuses herself in often intense play time, where she bosses around her Barbies and creates wonderful art on her desk and dresser. Of course, when asked about this, she admits nothing! She’s as clever and evasive as she is cute. Let’s face it, dollies aren’t my thing, but I have played, even though I’m taken to task for my improper play style. My dolls jump, yell and fight, what can I say?
My eldest, who recently became a teen, is a bit beyond interacting with dear, old dad. She desperately wants to grow up and experience grown-up things. She watches teen movies, makes crafts and sings loudly (she’s actually quite good) as if to make a statement to the world.
We have kept all of the good, old toys in the basement and I often find her rummaging around, picking out some oldie, but goodie. She can also be found playing with Hot Wheels and for some strange reason, she tends to like the really odd cars of the ‘70s of the ‘80s, like station wagons, Gremlins and Pacers! Don’t tell me these are making a comeback! I understand retro, but come on!
Does play really tell you a lot about someone? Psychologists will say yes and there’s likely mountains of data on play behaviour.
The bottom line is to allow them the simplicity of play. And, it doesn’t hurt to get down on the floor with them and let loose. Getting up is another matter!
Have fun!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Penny wise ankle-biter
"Daddy, why do we have to use our own money to buy things?"
A very good question, from a tiny, pant-leg tugger.
My youngest daughter wondered why things aren't just provided for us - all of us - and why we have to use something as nasty as money to get what we need.
I couldn't very well debate the merits of European socialism or the ideology of Marxism with a five-year-old.
She made me think, this little intuitive offspring of ours. I quite like the system used in Scandinavian countries - true welfare states where citizens are on a level playing field, given the necessities of life, comprehensive health care, government-subsidized housing (not in our sense) and insurance against illness and old age. Sure, residents are heavily taxed to pay for such a system, but really, if it works, what's wrong with it?
I'd be happy to part with half of my income if my family and I were guaranteed a mortgage-free house to live in; inclusive health care; decent old age security and family benefits should we become ill and can't work.
On a purely philosophical level, think about it. What would happen to our society if we removed the evils of money and the drive to accumulate material wealth? None of us would have to outdo our neighbours. We wouldn't buy bigger and bigger SUVs, diamond rings or gold watches. We wouldn't need designer jeans, the latest in athletic footwear or an exhausing litany of logos and labels. We'd all be driving around in Smart Cars wearing green jumpsuits, but we'd be happy, healthy and stress-free.
Sounds like a perfectly fair trade-off to me.
Of course, others would see this as heresy, claiming that society as we know it would crumble and fall. Again, is that a bad thing?
I often joke with others during this current stress-filled time in my life that shedding all modern chains, moving to a tropical locale and living in a treehouse is looking mighty good. We'd get plenty of Vitamin D, eat off the land, get plenty of exercise and be one with nature.
In the Tim Burton film, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie wants to sell his golden ticket for money so the family can buy necessities. But one of his grandparents takes him aside and points out there's plenty of money in the world and they print more of it all the time. Why would Charlie want to trade his unique ticket for something as common as money? Why indeed?
Maybe the joke's on us. We're racing towards an early grave with that carrot on a stick, forever out of reach.
A very good question, from a tiny, pant-leg tugger.
My youngest daughter wondered why things aren't just provided for us - all of us - and why we have to use something as nasty as money to get what we need.
I couldn't very well debate the merits of European socialism or the ideology of Marxism with a five-year-old.
She made me think, this little intuitive offspring of ours. I quite like the system used in Scandinavian countries - true welfare states where citizens are on a level playing field, given the necessities of life, comprehensive health care, government-subsidized housing (not in our sense) and insurance against illness and old age. Sure, residents are heavily taxed to pay for such a system, but really, if it works, what's wrong with it?
I'd be happy to part with half of my income if my family and I were guaranteed a mortgage-free house to live in; inclusive health care; decent old age security and family benefits should we become ill and can't work.
On a purely philosophical level, think about it. What would happen to our society if we removed the evils of money and the drive to accumulate material wealth? None of us would have to outdo our neighbours. We wouldn't buy bigger and bigger SUVs, diamond rings or gold watches. We wouldn't need designer jeans, the latest in athletic footwear or an exhausing litany of logos and labels. We'd all be driving around in Smart Cars wearing green jumpsuits, but we'd be happy, healthy and stress-free.
Sounds like a perfectly fair trade-off to me.
Of course, others would see this as heresy, claiming that society as we know it would crumble and fall. Again, is that a bad thing?
I often joke with others during this current stress-filled time in my life that shedding all modern chains, moving to a tropical locale and living in a treehouse is looking mighty good. We'd get plenty of Vitamin D, eat off the land, get plenty of exercise and be one with nature.
In the Tim Burton film, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie wants to sell his golden ticket for money so the family can buy necessities. But one of his grandparents takes him aside and points out there's plenty of money in the world and they print more of it all the time. Why would Charlie want to trade his unique ticket for something as common as money? Why indeed?
Maybe the joke's on us. We're racing towards an early grave with that carrot on a stick, forever out of reach.
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