I grew up in the heart of the city of Vancouver’s west side in a little neighborhood called Kerrisdale. But although I am a city boy, my father, a family physician, taught my twin brother and I how to live like we were from the country. I think it is because my father wanted his [...]
In early December, I received a direct Twitter message from a friend that said, “If you wish to grow thinner, diminish your dinner” (a Benjamin Franklin quote). I was somewhat baffled, as this message seemed to be completely out of context. When I went onto Twitter however, the context was made clear. Apparently, someone had [...]
When I was in high school I played in the school band and enjoyed it. I had some success and by my grade 10 year I was asked to play first chair trumpet in the senior level band. But, in grade 12, our band teacher left and a new teacher was hired. Rumour had it, [...]
My laugh has been the source of a variety of comments over the years. In most cases, these comments have been positive. Having it referred to as a “cackle,” as is often the case, doesn’t sound very complimentary, though it has been known to make babies cry. I do know the fact that it can [...]
When I was 10, I was a fundamentalist. It was then that I learned in science class that the tomato was a fruit. It's likely that, armed with this new information, I sallied forth to do battle against ignorance—or, rather, against the ignorant. I'd approach my unsuspecting victim and say, "Tomatoes are fruit." Predictably, they'd [...]
I am a bit of a techie. That confession probably doesn’t surprise anyone who knows me. I like to figure stuff out; how things work and how to make broken things work again. This interest in all things “geeky” has served me well as a teacher and administrator as we are often dealing with technology [...]
If you haven’t made a New Year’s Resolution yet (which I haven’t), or if you have already broken yours (which if I made one, I probably would have by now), or if you just want to try something new or intentional (which I do!), here is my suggestion for you: Family Game Night. I know [...]
Start off with an unexpected snow day! Get Grandpa to help build some snowmen. Help to coordinate a successful Christmas program with your Sunday school group. Make sure the wise men make it to the front on cue and the sheep “baa” correctly. Sit back and enjoy the Candlelight Service, especially if it includes one [...]
You may already know this, but there is a lot riding on a birthday party. So, when someone says they’re having a party in the ACS gym, I am thrilled. And then, when they tell me it’s a toonie party, my heart almost skips a beat. Why? Well, let me invite you into a moment [...]
It was Heidi’s birthday this past weekend. Heidi and I have had a long tradition that instead of buying gifts for these occasions, we go on a dates together (including a special dinner) and spend our money on an experience that has lasting memories. For whatever reason, I was having a tougher time trying to [...]
