Archive for November 2013
I’m not the only critic of the “Shoes off” policy. There are many other people out there just as judgmental and jerky as me.
I’ve taken some abuse for my position about removing shoes prior to entering a home. Criticism. Castigation. Metaphorical crucifixion, even. If you’re not familiar, my position is this: I readily remove my shoes without complaint when asked by the owner of a home, but I think the rule is stupid and rude. I would never…
Read MoreExtend your story beyond its original screen
If you saw the film Gravity, you’ll love this short film that depicts the complete conversation between Aningaaq, a polar fisherman, and Ryan, the astronaut stranded 200 miles above him. In the actual film, we see Ryan speaking to Aningaaq, but because Aningaaq doesn’t speak English and subtitles are not provided, we don’t get a…
Read MoreThe preferred Thanksgiving Day meal time
I enjoyed a lovely and perfect Thanksgiving yesterday. In the company of some of our best friends, we shared food, conversation, and football. We chatted about our work and our children. We laughed at stories told from a year gone by. There was great debate over whether or not I am a hipster (I’m not).…
Read MoreLet’s remember someone worth remembering
The next time you see an article or photograph of some reality television celebrity like Kim Kardashian, look away. Actively disengage from their nonsense. Make a purposeful effort to know as little as possible about people who have done so little to make this world a better pace. It’s possible, too. If you asked me…
Read MoreBacon: The perfect Hanukkah treat
Our first night of Hanukkah dinner was a delicious grilled cheese, apple and bacon sandwich. As my daughter chomped on a slice of bacon (the only meat that she eats), she said, “Bacon is perfect for Hanukkah, Daddy. Don’t you think?” I’m not Jewish, but even I know that there’s something wrong with that statement.
Read More17 reasons why I am thankful on Thanksgiving
After lamenting over the fact that the foundation of my good fortune is based upon blind luck, I must admit that I have much to be thankful for on Thanksgiving. The following is a terribly incomplete list: 1. My children, who are my greatest blessing in life. I find joy in everything that they do.…
Read MoreThis piece in Slate by Allison Benedikt is ridiculous link bait. It’s also offensive to my children.
I love Slate. I probably read Slate more than anything else on the Internet. But occasionally Slate publishes pieces that amount to nothing more than link bait, and Allison Benedikt’s piece entitled No Thanksgivukkah: The portmanteau holiday is bad for Jews and bad for America, is clearly one of them. Bad for America? The hyperbole…
Read MoreFailing as a father
Me: “Clara, do you have to go potty?” Daughter: “No, that’s not my potty dance. That’s my silly-willy dance. Can’t you tell the difference?” Me: “I didn’t know you have a silly-willy dance.” Clara: “Oh Daddy… c’mon.”
Read MoreThe Pope and an old lady in parking lot
On Saturday morning an older woman spotted me wearing gym shorts in a parking lot and said, “Put some pants on! Who do you think you are?” As with all rhetorically rude questions, I answered as specifically as possible. “I’m Matthew Dicks. Kind of a strange question, but would you like to see my driver’s…
Read MoreBest tweet ever
A reader from parts unknown tweeted this yesterday and made my heart soar: I miss my book “The memoirs of an imaginary friend” ….whoever who stole it … i pray that your butt grow wings –_- I offered to send a signed copy. Still waiting to hear back.
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