writer. storyteller. teacher
I was in the privacy of my own home. The shades were drawn. It was the middle of the day. There was no chance of getting caught. Or so I thought. In my haste, I overlooked one very important detail – locking the back door. I don’t know who was more startled. And I’m not… Continue reading Scarred for Life
Santa, dear Santa It’s that time of year But you showing up Is now my biggest fear I’m not being critical Of the stuff that you bring In fact, I’ll tell you It’s only one thing Santa, you know I don’t mean to be mocking But last time you left… Continue reading Axe the Axe
When Younger Boy was little, I could always find him by following whatever trail he left behind. Not much has changed. Neatness has never been his strength. Most of the time, I overlook it. I choose my battles and tidiness has never been one of them. In small doses, a little messiness doesn't ruffle my feathers.… Continue reading How to Clean – The Teenage Years
School's out today. No more studying for finals, no more tests. Just a long stretch of summer days. But a lot has changed since the boys were little kids. For all of us. Because within a few hours, this is what my house will look like: Welcome to the hang-out house. I love it that… Continue reading Summer Time – It’s A Teen’s Life
When I looked in my rearview mirror and saw flashing lights, I wasn’t concerned. I did what law-abiding drivers do – I eased over to the side of the road so he could quickly proceed with pursuing a wily suspect. My mind concocted scenes from CSI, The Wire and Law and Order. Was it a… Continue reading Breaking the Law
Dear Older Boy and Younger Boy, It’s hard to believe you’ll both be in high school next year. People told me how fast this would happen. I didn’t believe them. Folks told me a lot of things back then. But I’m glad no one offered me this child-rearing statistic – how much it would cost… Continue reading It’s All In The Planning
My Friday? Surgery to fix Older Boy's broken nose. Check. Doctor visit to examine Younger Boy's ankle in cast - referral to orthopedic surgeon. Check. The Husband, who also blew out a calf muscle last week playing basketball with Younger Boy, down for the count with stomach flu. Check. Mommy needs a drink. Only I… Continue reading Mommy Needs A Drink – Part Deux
Older Boy is 13. Dare I say, very 13. (My mother is quick to remind me that I was very 13 once myself.) And he isn't afraid to call it as he sees it. His observations lack that one, often crucial ingredient - tact. So it was no great surprise while we were in the… Continue reading The World According to the 13-Year-Old
Apparently even sprinters. Maybe I could use some too. This is Crazy Legs after coming in 2nd in the 100m. He didn't get it from me. I'm built for comfort, not for speed.
Denise Malloy 