I was trying to compile an exhaustive list of tips for parents, particularly Plebe parents, for the academic year. But it turned into an exercise of "can God create a rock so big He himself can't lift it." So I figured I would just toss out a few here and there. Let's start with one … Continue reading Pro tip: How to spy on Mids in Bancroft Hall

From the moment you become a writer, you think about writing a book. No, more than that, you start planning to write a book. For me, it was going to be one of three things: The stereotypical Great American Novel ... I loved (and still love) Tolkein's ability to weave a story An omnibus sports … Continue reading My book, ‘Anchored In Tradition,’ is now available!

This was supposed to be a smooth week - drop the final batch of stuff to the Mid and wait for a picture of him signing his 2 for 7s. But if there's one thing I've learned from my time as a Mid Dad, it's that things rarely go the way you expect them to … Continue reading Anxiety, disappointment and relief as the Class of 2020 hits the Point of No Return

It's been a real joy scrolling through Facebook the past two days watching the Class of 2022 parents reunite on Plebe Parents Weekend. It brought back a flood of great memories. It's tough to say goodbye after that reunion, but say goodbye they did and, well, now it's back to reality. And not just for … Continue reading With PPW in the books, it’s time to strap in

Some folks see the beginning of Third Block as summer's turning point, but as far as I'm concerned, it's the beginning of August. By the time the sun rises on The Yard on August 1, the Plebes of the class of 2022 have had their second phone call. They've also lived through the jarring "changing … Continue reading Summer 2018 hits the real turning point

The dichotomy of life at USNA continues to amaze me. By the time the sun sets on Sunday, July 8, the Plebes of the class of 2022 (and their respective families) will have completed the initial set of hurdles. They went through the shock of Induction Day on June 28 to kick off Plebe Summer. … Continue reading An exhausting stretch for some, restful for others

The battle between Navy and Nike won't be found in warfare history, but it's worth noting, though it's left me with two unanswered questions. It all started with the unveiling of a new logo for an L.A. shop (and longtime Nike partner). It took social media about a nanosecond to lose its collective mind over … Continue reading That time Navy sank Nike