Father's Pride

As I'm holding you in my arms, I realize how much you've grown. Soon you'll be a child, a boy, a man. It only takes a moment, before the days of innocence are lost. I think about all of the things you must learn, or I must teach you, before you cross into the unforgiving grip of reality, and face the world on your own.

I will teach you how to walk, and swim, and ride a bike. We'll play catch, roast marshmallows, and fish till it's dark. I'll tell you stories of my past. You'll tell me plans for your future. We'll take trips, and see old friends, and keep secrets from your mother. While these moments may stand still, the clock keeps on ticking.

I can't wait for basketball games. I'll teach you everything I know. We'll put up a hoop in the driveway, and a light to lead the way. Your mom will call you in to eat, I'll convince her just 10 minutes more. I'll watch from the window as you practice, critiquing your every move. In the end I'll just smile, your just like me in every way.

I'll do my best to guide you son. I hope I don't let you down. I'll always tell you the truth, no matter the pain it might cause. I want you to stand up for what's right, and have faith in what you believe. I'll teach you right from wrong, and forgive you for your mistakes. I can only hope when all is said and done, that you have learned as much from me, as I will learn from you.

Time will tell the job I've done. One day you'll be on your own. A job. A family. A place to call home. The need for my approval will slowly fade away, as the choices you make, are of yours and yours alone.
As I'm holding you now in my arms, I realize how much you've grown. Time stands still for no man. I just wish, it would slow down.

Gone Fishing

I'll never forget the excitement, and anticipation of a fishing trip with my Dad. Every year, Dad, Uncle Carroll, Uncle Kelly, and myself traveled north a few hours up to Fairbault, MN to escape the challenges of everyday life. A lot of kids my age at that point in time would want nothing to do with a trip like this. 4 days spent with your Dad and family members trapped on a boat in the middle of a lake with nothing to do but talk. Me? I loved it. I looked forward to it. I miss it.

We never got up too early. We always stayed up too late. There were days we would hardly fish, and some when we would fill the buckets. There was one thing guaranteed. Laughter. I remember laughing myself to tears listening to stories of Dad and Carroll growing up. Meeting "the locals" in the cabins next door. Exploring new bars and restaurants in "downtown" Fairbault. And of course, having a beer with your Dad for the first time.

We haven't gone on a trip in many years. I'd be interested to explore our old stomping grounds now. See what's changed, what's stayed the same. Dad and I always talk about taking a few trips and "getting  back" into fishing. Maybe this is the year. Maybe it's time. Maybe, it's long overdue.