Nostalgia in Cologne

Spring is without a doubt my favorite time of year. It's warm, but not hot. I can go biking for several hours before its dark without having to wear multiple layers of clothing. Spring is the time to jump on the trampoline then run across the yard, barefoot, into the pergola. My favorite part of spring is the sunset. Sitting next to my father and brother silently brings a sense of tranquility I crave all year round; I feel accepted into the world of my older brother, and appreciated by my dad. I also really like the aroma of my father's pipe. And Old Spice. The problem with spring, however, is that it is too nostalgic. I feel like I should be five years old, nuzzling into my father or mother's chest as the sunsets, while a cool breeze blows my hair. I mean, I still do that, but there is a difference. I am older, two years shy of adulthood. Well, the literal meaning of adulthood. Really I am simply Peter Pan. I will never grow old, I will forever be a child, at least during springtime.

My Body is a Temple

My freshman year of high school I met an amazing friend. While we are not incredibly close, I can say she is one of the sweetest, most caring people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. This friend, Ashley, founded the non-profit organization My Body is a Temple. MBIAT is targeted to boys, girls, and people of all religions. Ashley, and many people like her (including myself), wish to rid the world of self-hatred and eating disorders, along with overall improved lives. We all deserve to live comfortably, and often times the distortion media instills in young (and old) people minds gets in the way of our goals. Please do whatever you can to be involved in this incredible movement against self-loathing.

Go to http://mbiat.org/ to learn more!

Babysitting

I am not going to help you choose your pajamas, you are a big boy, do it yourself.

I am not going to scoop you ice cream or get you another glass of soda, it is past 9 o'clock.

I am not going to get a movie ready for you, you were supposed to be in bed a half hour ago.

I am not going to read you another story. Two Spongebob picture books are enough (with the voices of course)

I am not going to say it again: "Remember to go to the bathroom." "Brush your teeth for gosh sake!"
"I won't drag you up the stairs, your legs are there for a reason."
"GO. TO. BED. NOW."

I am not going to leave you.

I am not going to let the monsters get you.

I am not going to let you have night-terrors.

I promise.