Many of us have or are helping our children's grandparents schedule their COVID-19 shots. While we're at it, don't forget to check in to make sure Pop-Pop and Grams are up to date on other vaccines that help keep older adults healthy through their golden years. As we age, our immune systems weaken. Some vaccines received in childhood also lose efficacy. These leave a person, especially one with other health conditions, less able to fend off infections as well as when they were younger and stronger. Bottom line: Seniors and even those of us parents over age 50 are more venerable to … [Read more...]
Sad the Kids are Growing Up? Here are Some Reasons to be Thankful
Contrary to the popular opinion of most parents, I am very thankful my kids are growing up. Some many months ago when my wife and I were traveling, we had a chance to watch a family with their young children at the airport. I was reminded of the family trips we took just a few short years ago – pushing strollers, hauling large amounts of baby gear through airports, installing car seats in rental cars and making sure hotel rooms had cribs or pack 'n’ plays available. Now when we travel, our kids wheel their own suitcases through the airport. Heck, my wife and I even have even given them … [Read more...]
Fathers of All Ages
A friend of mine from college was in town so I messaged him immediately to if he’d have time to get together. It was great seeing him again because it brought back some great memories and encouraged me about today’s young people. For the record, I feel like I’m 90 years old when I write ‘today’s young people,’ but in this context it’s true. My friend’s son is in his senior year of high school. My kids are 3 and 5. I don’t feel like an old dad, but suddenly, seeing a good friend from college talking about his life and what he does as a dad made me feel weird. Having a child forces you to … [Read more...]