Words & Banter

A Day For Dad. A Day For Gratitude.

Illustration by iStock


Red assets.rebelmouse.io


Every Father’s Day, when I think of Daddy, there are so many great memories, especially because he worked from home (decades before it became popular). He was always there for me (literally and figuratively) and taught me about unconditional love. And even though he passed away over 20 years ago, the memories and feelings of love are as strong as ever. He’ll always be an important part of my life.


Black assets.rebelmouse.io


This is typically where I remind you that Father’s Day was a form of “equal rights” for dads since Mother’s Day was already in existence. And that, due to the clothing industry, became more of a “retail holiday”. (Which explains why ties were once the “default” Father’s Day gift).

But, Father’s Day is not about gifts; it is about gratitude. Plus, dads always have a very special place in the hearts of their “little girls” … no matter how old those “girls” become. Ours may have been a man of few words, but when Daddy spoke, you listened. And, even when he was quiet, you knew he was there if needed. He taught me the importance of trust and the meaning of love.

For fathers (and father figures) everywhere, we wish you a very happy Father’s Day and thank you for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

holidays
Words & Banter

A Love Of Movies. Or Popcorn?

Photo by Lynda Sanchez on Unsplash

It's a running joke in my family that the only reason I go to the movies is for the popcorn. And while that isn't 100% true, it's probably close, as I can't remember a time when popcorn wasn't an essential part of the experience.

I can still remember seeing Mel Brooks' "Young Frankenstein" when it was first released (in 1974) at the Massapequa movie theater, which was literally at one end of an old strip shopping center. It bore no resemblance to today's multiplex cinemas, and the concession stand offerings were very limited. It was dark and a bit dingy, and the seats were old and uncomfortable. But I didn't care because the popcorn more than made up for it. And while I sat through multiple showings of the movie (it's still one of my favorites), I was grateful my dad had given me enough money to buy multiple popcorns, as in those days there was no such thing as the big bucket, let alone free refills.

Fast forward, and some things never change...

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movies
Words & Banter

We Fondly Call Them … Our Guinea Pigs

Photograph Courtesy of KIPP Houston Art School

Every time we see the photo above of our "guinea pigs", it brings back such fond memories. You may be thinking, "What? Are they calling those students guinea pigs?!" Well, actually, yes. And before you think ill of us, please know that we use the term with great affection, deep gratitude, and utmost respect. And these eight amazing seniors from the Class of 2010 know that's our nickname for them because ...

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student approved
Words & Banter

A Memory Lane Car Analogy?

Red loves to stop and reminisce. Black prefers to look forward.

But even Black will admit that sometimes there’s value in looking back — it reminds us where we came from, the detours and roadblocks we have managed to navigate, and that we may be stronger and more capable than we give ourselves credit for. Sometimes, it’s a lesson learned. Sometimes, it’s a memory that reminds us what’s truly important.

But Black has one caveat (and it's one of her favorite car analogies) …

If you decide to look back, keep it in perspective. There's a reason why windshields are so much larger than rearview mirrors.
life lessons