Before you read any further, watch that clip up there. You'll thank me later. It was some time in the late 70s or early 80s. I was about four feet tall and meek as hell. I had just joined the band in middle school, not because I had musical talent or aspirations, but because … [Read more...] about Me, Trombone Shorty
Dirt and Noise
Turning 50
I tell my sons not to peak early. I didn’t peak until my 40s, and it was worth the wait. In fact, if you peak late, you just keeping soaring and don’t plateau. I’m turning 50 in just over a week. I’m not sure why this decade is the cause of such strife. It’s a … [Read more...] about Turning 50
Fight on The Fourth of July
I don’t take my United States citizenship for granted because my family chose to be American; we weren’t born to it. As we do every year, we went to the North Carolina state Capitol to watch newly minted United States citizens sworn in. Today we celebrated 27 new citizens, … [Read more...] about Fight on The Fourth of July
Another Teenager in the House – Happy Birthday, Deal!
My Darling Deal, The world is a flurry of shambles right now. I hate having to explain all the insightful and difficult questions you bring home. I don’t have answers to most of the topics you raise. The age of Trump has in many ways robbed you of your childhood and tender … [Read more...] about Another Teenager in the House – Happy Birthday, Deal!
ENOUGH. Again.
We should drop off our sons and daughters at high school and hope that the principal doesn't call. Instead we hope that our child doesn't call in frightened whispers from under a desk. Our sons and daughters should go to school and try to snag a seat next to the cute boy or … [Read more...] about ENOUGH. Again.
My History in Cards and Letters
My dad saved everything. If you know him, this might come as a surprise. He's both sentimental and stoic. Many years ago he gave me a three-ring binder brimming with letters I wrote home from boarding school and my gap year abroad. There are even pre-cell phone notes I scribbled … [Read more...] about My History in Cards and Letters
Giving Tuesday & My Favorite Little Charity
On this Giving Tuesday, I’d like to share why the Cecilia Rawlins Fund (CRF) is so dear to me. I dedicate my time by serving on its board and donate money to support its mission. CRF helps nourish children at Wiley Elementary School by funding the weekly Backpack Buddies program … [Read more...] about Giving Tuesday & My Favorite Little Charity