My Boys

I am so proud of Rob. He didn't have it easy, growing up. I was a completely neurotic flake. I couldn't settle -- kept moving, changing towns, houses, jobs. I was trying to find a place we could be happy in. Problem is, no matter where we went, I took all my bullshit baggage with me. Myself, in other words.

I am equally proud of Zen. He had a little bit of an easier time. I hope. It was hard for him, absolutely, but we didn't move quite as much. Wait, I'm wrong. We did, but for different reasons. I wasn't quite as much of an ass when I was 32 as I was when I was 22. Maybe that's why it feels a little different, Zen's childhood. Hard yes, but not as frantic.

Lib said to me a long time ago that she'd said something to Rob (when he was ten or so) -- something about how he was very grown up. He told her that he'd had to be. Very clear implication there. I think it holds true for both Rob and Zen. When your mom can't be depended on, you grow up fast.

Rob and Zen have grown up to be strong, intelligent, moral men. They are a testament to the fantastic resilience of children and the strength and beauty of their own characters and souls.

I love both my beautiful boys more than I can ever say.