A joyous occasion! My first nephew and/or niece was born on this day. Now he’s in the prime spot of being a teenager. Recently his dad told me what he’s into…mountain bikes (alright) and skateboarding (hmm). The latter gets the semi-disapproving noise because I grew up in the Eighties when skate rats were generally dicks. One particular rat was a guy in college we nicknamed Rubella (the disease) thanks to only needing to change the vowel at the end of his name. He wasn’t a full-timer yet he hailed from a lesser skate rat Mecca, Phoenix.
I’m never going to fret. Nick is a Maggi. This means, he may grow into a complainer like his dad and uncle but he’s not a bad friend to have. There’s hope too. Through age, therapy and taking a tougher stance on being a better dude, complaining doesn’t have to be hereditary!
This year I think he’s in Seattle for the long weekend with his parents. Somara and I will scramble to find a gift card to a skate shop he’ll like. I made it clear to him and I will with all other kids, no cash, it has to be something personal if I’m going to grant a gift. Nick is certainly becoming more like his old man, he isn’t into Star Wars or that other geek shit his uncle digs. I can live this. Just as long as Nick continues the tradition of pursuing a good education to become a well-adjusted member of society. Happiness is a big element. I just think never losing your love of learning/knowledge helps toward the happiness by providing more options.