This afternoon was a beautiful day in Central Connecticut and we spent some time with Grammy and Papa P at Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown.  The air was crisp but warm, the leaves were in full color and the hills were just strong enough to help burn off the pounds of Halloween candy I’ve consumed.

Though there were many highlights, two come to mind on this trip as particularly interesting.  First, Ry made his first climb up a tree!  While Papa P was gently placing him in the tree, I paused for a minute and had this internal conversation.  Keep in mind this picture is the exact moment this was happening in my mind…so you’re seeing what I saw.
   
                Dave:  Q. Umm, is Jenn watching this?
                Dave:  A. Yes, she appears to be watching this.
                Dave:  Q.  Is this a good idea?
                Dave:  A.  Is Jenn watching?
                Dave:  Q.  Okay, so you think it looks fun and secretly wish you could do it.                                                   Does that make it okay?
                Dave:  A.  Is Jenn watching?
                Dave to Ryan:  “Hey you’re doing great, just don’t let go.”

It was in that moment I realized that, if I’m going to leave a profound mark on my boys, I’ve gotta step up my game in the moment and offer some valuable advice.  Though then again, they always say you should keep things as simple as possible…. well I did that….