Daddy Talk: Picture Day

Man what fun. Today we spent some time with a professional photographer. At least it's with somebody who took money to take our pictures. I make light. It was very fun -- unexpectedly so.

Lots of pictures and the boy had so much fun even with all the kid wrangling. Throwing around pine cones and getting tired. That little boy of mine is so photogenic and he knows how to have fun until it's no more fun.

I really am looking forward to seeing how the pictures turned out. If she got half of what was happening, there are a lot of candid shots that will be well worth remembering.

I really miss my family album. We haven't been able to find any of the other albums that were at my parent's house. It really is unfortunate and makes me sad that I won't be able to show my son the pictures of me growing up. Luckily I have found some pictures through friends and family but it's not nearly enough. There are so many pictures of people in my life that are just gone now. I will do the best that I can and show him what I can.

Daddy Talk: Getting Outdoors

I don't remember too many outdoor excursions with my parents from when I was a kid. I know my dad liked to fish, and I really didn't take much advantage of that. Truth be told, I am sure I was pretty whiny.

I remember three trips: One to Memorial Park to fish in the lake there, another more recent trip to fish at 11 Mile reservoir and camping in the Bronco in the driveway. I don't remember ever camping in a tent.

I think my dad liked to do those things when he was younger, but for some reason we never got around to it.

I went with Pam and Milo to Fox Run Park and did a little trail hiking recently. It was a few hours long but it was really fun. The boy enjoyed getting out and watching the scenery go by as he rode in the backpack some family friends gave us.

I want my family to be outdoorsy. I want us to go four-wheeling. I want us to see the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Mt. Rushmore. I want us to really enjoy the things that are available to us, like camping and hunting, but maybe not fishing (I still think it's gross).

I don't know why I want this other than just because. I keep remembering a saying: "I do not regret the things I've done, but those I did not do."

My life is full of paths not taken. I don't want Milo to be that way.