Things I Never Thought I Would Have To Learn In My 60's

I am really a pretty logical guy.  In fact, maybe to a fault sometimes.  I even sometimes think in math if that makes any sense to anyone who might be reading this.  My problem solving skills have been an attribute appreciated by many. And so, it should not be surprising to know that when I am dealing with someone who apparently does not think that way, well, it can be unnerving for me.  Tonight,  Martie and I were at the dinner table with Laura.  We were having a pleasant - "normal" conversation, or so I thought.  It was then that Laura shared some insight into how her mind works.  Laura - Why does the year start in January? Papa - What? Laura - I mean why does it have to start January?  Why can't it start in July? Why can't the first of August be the start of the new year? Nana - Why would you want the new year to start in August? Laura - Because it is summer and we are not in school. It makes sense to me. Now friends, my mind was blank.  I

I always thought I was a pretty reasonable guy.  In fact, in the past, people have called me patient, kind-hearted, giving, compassionate - you know... as I write this... I realize that I am not only reasonable - I am a pretty cool dude! (Just kidding but like Mac Davis sang, Lord it's hard to by humble when you are perfect in so many ways.) (just kidding again, I know where the goodness comes from in my life and it is not from my flesh but my faith) Getting back on track - teenagers are so self-centered.  (Can I get an AMEN?) Of course they don't think so and would deny it if confronted, but it - is - true! Let me give you an example of a lesson I am re-learning. Remember the "soccer dad" comment the other day?  Well ... After work, I routinely pick Laura up at school after Softball practice and then drive to the Soccer complex and pick Nate up.  A few weeks ago, I got a text from Nate that went something like this..... So I am at work when I receive a messag

The Story continues ....... There seems to be a significant communication gap between us and THEM.  I have prided myself, maybe that is what the Lord is teaching me, with my ability to communicate well with almost anyone.  It doesn't matter the education level, the cultural background, I can typically communicate what I am thinking in an understandable way to them.  So, THEY arrive and I figure, no problem, I got this.  One of the first indications that maybe "this" was slipping through my fingers happened a few weeks ago. I already told you that Nate is on the JV soccer team. I have become a "soccer dad". Anyway, that is a story for another time.  Nate's team was playing Prattville.  I asked him if he would be playing in the field next to the stands.  He said yes.  His team plays at the YMCA soccer complex near AUM.  I thought "Great!"  I had already reconned the field and knew that I could sit in the SUV and watch the whole game, vice sitting

So my wife and I find ourselves raising twin teenagers (16 years old), Laura and Nate, in our 60's.  Did not see that coming!  They have been with us for 6 months now and there have been a lot of adjustments on both sides.  I was sharing some episodes at work today and one of the guys said that I should start a BLOG about this adventure.  So I am.  And it has been and, I am certain, will continue to be quite an adventure.  After coming off of the mission field, we found a little house that we could snuggle in to and recuperate. No pressure.  No responsibility.  Peace and quiet.  Or so we thought.  We had an upstairs, but didn't need it except when guests might come for a visit.  Did I mention that the twins are a boy and a girl?  Our guest room idea did not last long.  So last October we remodeled our house.  We added two bedrooms upstairs with a common area that separates them. We enrolled them in school and in sports.  Laura in JV softball and the Nate in band and soccer.