One of the things I enjoy about being a newspaper editor is each day is different. The same can be said for parenting.That’s what I was thinking Wednesday night when Carson, 11, came into our room. He was standing at our door with his pointer finger beckoning me. He made it clear he wanted me… Read more »

My kids have a way of simplifying life for me, helping to keep the journey in perspective.In these times, it’s so welcomed because there’s not much straightforward about life right now.I spent last Friday with Carson at home in virtual learning. Pam will be with him during the week so long as schools are closed…. Read more »

Carson does evidently like school after all.I was away with Beckett at a soccer tournament Sunday afternoon when the call came about school going virtual through the end of the month. Therefore, it was on Pam to let Carson, our 11-year-old fifth grader, know he would not being going back to school Monday.As I thought… Read more »

A snippet of a routine afternoon conversation with my seventh grader confirms I will never learn. I know better than to seek information from my 12-year-old about his school day as soon as he gets in the car after school, but I do it anyway a couple times a week.Me: How was your day?Beckett: GoodMe:… Read more »

There are certain moments a parent never forgets.Last Sunday afternoon was one of those for me. I had a decision to make. It was 1:15 p.m. and Beckett and I were sitting in my truck watching the Ravens game on my phone with rain flooding the ground all around us.Beckett, 12, never said anything about… Read more »

There are days when it all seems like a nightmare, but I see inspiration when I look at my kids.They, along with others around them their ages, are taking everything in stride. They are adapting and figuring it all out. Maybe it’s the kids who all adults should look to for guidance on navigating this… Read more »

It’s interesting to me how I feel about celebrities weighing in on politics compared to how compelled I am hearing them talk about their families.Though I have no tolerance for celebrities waxing passionately about Biden vs. Trump, I do find their takes on parenting and the challenges that come with it interesting. I can’t explain… Read more »

I was told repeatedly to enjoy the early years with my kids because once they get older life will get tougher.There are daily tastes of these harsh realities with our 12-year-old Beckett, who seems to be craving independence in all things but especially with his school work. However, the fact is he requires constant monitoring…. Read more »

Monday was all about the new for Carson — new school, new people, new earlier start time and new routine.Ocean City Elementary was the only school he has known for the last seven years. Though he officially started his fifth grade year at Berlin Intermediate School online a few weeks ago, his first true day… Read more »

Expectations clearly need monitoring with children these days. Our own actions and decisions as parents will go a long way toward keeping our kids’ requests in check.As we talked with Beckett about how he should not expect us to buy or build him a new skateboard ramp (a half pipe) if he gets all A’s… Read more »