Match the Curves, Pt. 2

In addition to life’s curves, I have noticed that I have a few more curves to my body. All in my mid-section. Now that Carson is in pre-school, I have plenty of time to get back to the gym. But after four years, I find that not going is okay by me and okay with the Princess. So that leaves me plenty of time to watch TV, play on-line games and write this column.

The curve that I am really interested in talking about is the ones on our feet. That is how I taught Carson to put on his shoes. I suppose that using the words left and right would make more sense, but it was the first thing that came to mind…Match the curves. I pointed out to him that each shoe has a curve and it needs to match up to his foot. He bought it and now he always asks me if his shoes match the curve. I always have to say yes or no. I also now point out to him that his toes point at each other and so must his shoes. I think he is starting to get the point.

Okay a cheesy pun. But the real point is that he is starting to see things logically. I may be a stay at home Dad (SAHD), but I am still a man foremost. Yes I can be touchy feely, but logic mostly prevails. And that is what I always fall back on when Carson asks me a question. This is always followed up with a “why” and then another “why?” I have found that answering him with a logical response worded in the way that a four year old can understand works best for him. And my sanity.

It is my way of teaching him some simple things like matching the curves. And I hope that I am building a foundation for him to come up with answers on his own. Answers that make sense for him. And more importantly, teach him how to think for himself. Because we all know that life throws us curves. And like me and you, life will throw him a few doozies.

And when it does, I hope that he can solve them for himself. If not, I hope that he will pick up the phone and call me. Since I am an older parent, I know I won’t be around for all of them and one day that phone call won’t be an option. But that’s another story.