Blog Focus

When I started out to write this blog my intent was to write a bunch of stories about Ann and John during their formative years. Of course that just turns into an endless brag session, but that’s what parents are good at.

The stories about John’s athletic accomplishments are the easiest to tell because they were observed directly and have numbers associated with them, like place finishes and times. Ann has some athletic accomplishments too, but her best stories are either academic in nature or are about overcoming the many hardships of West Point. Ann has a host of obscenely high grades, test scores, and awards, plus the most atypical college experience that can be imagined.

Ann and John probably know the stories about their childhood pretty well by now. Jean and I enjoy telling the stories over and over again. That doesn’t mean I shouldn’t put them in print and save them for their children. Ann and John will tell the stories their way someday. Putting them in writing here makes sure the stories get told at least one time in my way; “in my way” means that I don’t let the facts get in the way of a good story.

When I started the blog Ann was wondering why I was doing this and asked if I was healthy. Yes, I am fine; I am not dying, as far as I know. I also know that all too many friends and acquaintances are falling ill and passing away. Just as a run around the mountain begins with a single step, this blog had to start with a single word. It isn’t going to write itself. If I don’t start today, when will it ever get done?

I’ve noticed that a lot of my stories end up being about me. I’ve been feeling guilty about that, but I think I am going to go ahead and give in to the inclination as it suits me from now on. The kids know their own stories perfectly well. They might not know mine.